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What Quarters are Eligible for ERTC?

Jared DeValk • September 2, 2023

What Quarters are Eligible for ERTC?

The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is a refundable tax credit designed to incentivize eligible employers to retain their employees during challenging economic times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic[3]. The eligible quarters for ERTC depend on the year[1][3][4]:

ERTC Eligible Quarters for 2020

For the year 2020, eligible quarters for ERTC are:

  • Q2 2020: April 1, 2020, to June 30, 2020
  • Q3 2020: July 1, 2020, to September 30, 2020
  • Q4 2020: October 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020

ERTC Eligible Quarters for 2021

For the year 2021, eligible quarters for ERTC are:

  • Q1 2021: January 1, 2021, to March 31, 2021
  • Q2 2021: April 1, 2021, to June 30, 2021
  • Q3 2021: July 1, 2021, to September 30, 2021
  • Q4 2021: October 1, 2021, to December 31, 2021

ERTC Eligible Quarters for 2022

For the year 2022, eligible quarters for ERTC are:

  • Q1 2022: January 1, 2022, to March 31, 2022
  • Q2 2022: April 1, 2022, to June 30, 2022


It's important to note that eligible employers can claim the ERTC retroactively by filing Form 941-X for each quarter they paid qualifying wages[3]. Employers should stay updated with the latest IRS guidance and consult with tax professionals to ensure compliance with eligibility requirements and maximize the benefits of the credit[1][4][5][6].


In conclusion, eligible quarters for the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) depend on the year. By understanding the eligible quarters and staying informed about IRS guidelines, eligible employers can take advantage of this financial incentive to retain their employees during challenging economic times.


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