04/08/2020
Covid-19 Pandemic Update
Over the past weeks, we have experienced an unprecedented global event. You remain in our thoughts. We have moved our offices off-site and are working from home. However, Kinesis has always had that capability, and it isn’t impacting our ability to function.
While we are fortunate to have some clients continue shopping, as you might expect, many have temporarily suspended shopping, reducing the shops we have to offer. Most clients anticipate resuming their mystery shop programs in the future, but in the meantime, we’d like to share with you some of the programs that might be of help to you:
Unemployment Assistance – CARES Act
For those of you in need of financial assistance, there are resources available. As a Kinesis mystery shopper you are an Independent Contractor, and do not qualify for unemployment insurance. You should, therefore, not file for unemployment listing Kinesis as a former “employer”. Your state will contact us to confirm it, and we will be forced to deny it – potentially causing delays. There is, however, an option for independent contractors. It is the CARES Act.
The CARES Act creates “Pandemic Unemployment Assistance” to provide unemployment benefits to independent contractors like you who are ineligible for unemployment. The CARES Act permits an individual who is an independent contractor, to receive unemployment benefits if they are unable to work due to the pandemic.
Starting April 10, 2020, independent contractors like you can apply for and receive loans to cover their payroll and other certain expenses through existing SBA lenders. We recommend you contact your bank to inquire if they are a CARES Act lender. If not, find an SBA lender and apply.
Attached is a link to a government factsheet on the CARES Act.
Looking Forward
Kinesis has a loyal and committed customer base. Many of them have been with us for decades, and are in industries that are financially sound. These suspensions are temporary. Kinesis will continue to update you on the post-pandemic state of the industry, including best practices to stay safe both in life, and while performing a shop.
Stay safe. Be well. This is temporary.
Best wishes from all of us at Kinesis.
