Lockdown: Financial Assistance You May Be Eligible For
The new lockdown announced in October by Jean Castex requires another closure of businesses considered nonessential, including florists. To support business owners, the government has announced a series of measures designed to help you through this difficult time. The Sessile editorial team provides you with all the information you need about the assistance programs for which you may be eligible.
1/ The Solidarity Fund
As a business with fewer than 50 employees, you may be eligible for financial assistance ranging from 1,500 to 10,000 euros per month, depending on your loss of revenue.
If you practice in one of the departments where a curfew was announced in October, you will be able to submit your application starting November 20.
Good to know: Revenue generated by the “click & collect” service implemented during the lockdown is not included in your claim for compensation from the Solidarity Fund.
2/ Exemption from social security contributions
You may also be eligible for a full exemption from social security contributions if your company employs fewer than 50 employees.
3/ Tax Rebates
If you face potential payment difficulties as a result of your store’s closure, you can request a deferral or installment plan for your tax debt. In certain situations, you may also apply for a reduction in direct taxes (such as income tax).
4/ Reduction in the rent amount
Your landlord may, at your request, reduce or waive your rent payment.
5. Short-time work
If your business is affected by the public health measures announced by the government, and your employees are therefore unable to work, you can apply for short-time work.
6. State-Guaranteed Loans
You can take out a government-guaranteed loan from your bank through June 30, 2021, at an interest rate between 1% and 2.5%. The repayment period can range from 1 to 5 years.
If you do not have a financing solution, the government may provide direct loans ranging from €10,000 to €50,000.
7. Regional Aid
The regions also offer assistance programs for business owners. Contact your regional council to learn more.
8. Support for Implementing Click & Collect
To help retailers continue their business through online sales, the government is encouraging the establishment of additional sales channels. Revenue generated by “click & collect” is not included in the calculation for the Solidarity Fund.
Contact the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) in your department to learn more.
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Who are we?
Sessile champions the independence of artisan florists online. Founded in 2019 by six friends, Sessile brings together 500 florists committed to transforming the industry and enables flower delivery throughout France, Belgium, and Luxembourg. By breaking away from the traditional online catalog model, the network highlights each florist’s expertise and helps keep the art of floristry alive. Florists can pursue their passion and create more creative bouquets because they have greater freedom to offer seasonal flowers and, whenever possible, locally sourced flowers.