Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How is the employee count determined?

A: The employee count is determined by the total number of full‐time equivalent employees (FTE’s), which includes full time and part time employees, as well as 1099’s and the owner. Total weekly hours cannot exceed 2,000 hours for 1 –50 employees (50*40 Hours).

Q: I have multiple businesses, is there a cap to what I can receive?

A: Grant funds are available for each qualifying business based on its federal identification number. The cap for one business (with one federal Identification number) to receive both grants is $12,500. The Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Micro Grant provides up to $2,500 maximum; and the Small Business Retrofit Program provides up to $10,000 maximum.

Q: How do I find my active Sunbiz registration or Business Tax Receipt?

A: Search by “Entity Name” on SunBiz.org (use full legal business name), select listing with “Active” Status, and attach most recent filing as a screenshot (if applicable). Please contact the appropriate office listed below to obtain a copy of your Business Tax Receipt. A Citrus County Tax Collector Business Tax Receipt, City of Crystal River Business Tax Receipt, or City of Inverness Business Tax Receipt, a BTR is required to be eligible for the grant.

Please reference the below information on Business Tax Receipts:

Citrus County Tax Collector-Business Tax Receipt (BTR)

Phone Number: (352) 341-6500 option 3
Website: http://www.citrustc.us/pdf/BTR-Application.pdf
Email: BusinessTax@citrustc.us

Crystal River-Business Tax Receipt (BTR)

Phone Number: (352) 795-4216 Ext. 342
Website: https://www.crystalriverfl.org/sites/default/files/fileattachments/community_services/page/4441/business_tax_receipt_application.pdf
Email: mharkovich@crystalriverfl.org

City of Inverness-Business Tax Receipt (BTR)

Phone Number: (352) 726-3401
Website: https://www.inverness-fl.gov/DocumentCenter/View/43/BUSINESS-TAX-APPLICATION
Email: DDS@Inverness.gov

Q: How will I submit my documents to you?

A: Clear legible scans, photos, and screen shots of the required documents can be uploaded.

Q: Can non‐profit organizations apply?

A: Yes, a Non-Profit non-medical related business is eligible.

Q: Are home‐based business eligible to apply?

A: Yes, a home-based business is eligible.

Q: What if my business operates in Citrus County, but is foreign owned?

A: Foreign‐owned companies can apply as long as they are registered in Sunbiz as a Citrus County business and meet all other qualifications.

Q: I operate a franchise, am I eligible to apply?

A: Provided the franchise is independently owned, is not publicly traded, and meets all other qualifications, you would be eligible for the program.

Q: What happens if I do not include all of the required documents when I submit my application?

A: Only submit your application when you are able to provide the required documents. Applications will only be considered when they are submitted in their entirety.

Q: Are the grant awards taxable?

A: Yes, grant awards are considered taxable income. Awarded applicants will be issued a 1099 if the grant award, or combination of funding from the County totals $600 or more.

Q: Can I apply in person or by mail?

A: No. The application must be completed online. Submit only once you are able to provide all of the required documents.

Q: What happens if my company is awarded this grant?

A: You will receive a notice of award by email. Funds will be issued by check to the place of business.

Q: What if I have questions?

A: Please call (352) 527-5207 or email CARES@citrusbocc.com.