Deciding how to respond to workforce challenges during this crisis? 

The following resources can help you consider the best ways to support your workforce while maintaining the viability of your business during this time of crisis. For additional help in identifying and connecting with local services, dial 211 to speak with a trained resource navigator or visit 211Iowa.org. 

For Businesses

Response Tools

Resources for businesses: The Aspen Institute has gathered tools and resources for employers in four areas: worker health and safety, financial and other supports for workers, policy and workers' rights, and monitoring and supporting businesses. Find resources here. 

Reopening

Industry-specific playbooks: The Greater Des Moines Partnership has developed playbooks to help businesses and industries prepare for next steps related to economic recovery in a smart, safe, and collaborative way. View the guides here.

Tips for Re-Opening: This guide shares steps employers are taking to welcome employees back to the office. View the article.

Health and Safety Guidelines


Responding to COVID-19: The Iowa Department of Public Health offers resources, including environmental cleaning and disinfection recommendations, that can be found here.

CDC Guidance: The CDC provides this guidance for businesses to plan, prepare, and respond to the Coronavirus, including how to reduce transmission among employees, maintain healthy business operations, and maintain a healthy work environment. Read the guide here.

Responding to Legislation


Families First Act: On April 1, 2020, the U.S. Dept. of Labor announced new action regarding how American workers and employers will benefit from the protections and relief offered by the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act and the Emergency Family and Medical Leave Expansion Act, both part of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Find fact sheets and answers to common questions. Click here to learn more.

Unemployment Insurance: Iowa Workforce Development answers employers' frequently asked questions about unemployment insurance benefits. Click here to read more. 

COVID-19 Related Funding for Businesses


Tax Relief: The IRS has information on coronavirus tax relief for businesses and tax-exempt entities. Click here to learn more.

Current Funding Opportunities: GrantStation allows you to search for the latest COVID-19 funding opportunities for nonprofits, small businesses, journalists, and artists. Click here to begin a search.

Resources for Nonprofits


Resources to Respond to COVID-19: The National Council of Nonprofits is updating this page with the latest information and resources to help nonprofits prepare and respond. View the site here.

For Employees


Economic Impact Payments: Find information on economic impact payments as part of COVID-19 relief and changes to filing and payment deadlines for taxes from the IRS. Click here to learn more.

Unemployment Benefits: Iowa Workforce Development outlines current updates on unemployment benefits and how to get help. Click here to learn more. Find a document that answers frequently asked questions here. 

Paid Sick Leave and Expanded Family and Medical Leave: The Families First Coronavirus Response Act requires certain employers to provide employees with paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. The Department of Labor offers guidance on employee paid leave rights under this act. Click here to learn more.

Home Mortgages: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers a video on what struggling homeowners need to know about obtaining mortgage forbearance if their finances are impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here to learn more.

Student Loans: The U.S. Dept. of Education answers frequently asked questions about relief for federal student loan borrowers. Click here to learn more.