Airbnb says US coronavirus stimulus bill could offer its hosts some relief
[SAN FRANCISCO] Airbnb Inc hosts in the United States could get some relief from a US$2 trillion coronavirus stimulus bill that is nearing a vote in Congress, the home-rental startup said on Wednesday.
The travel industry, including Airbnb, has been hard hit as governments worldwide impose restrictions on movement to help slow the spread of the virus, which has infected over 450,000 people across the globe and led to more than 21,000 deaths.
To relieve the economic impact in the United States, a massive federal aid bill that received bipartisan agreement on Wednesday includes temporary unemployment benefits for self-employed and gig workers during the coronavirus crisis.
In an email to Reuters, Airbnb expressed thanks to lawmakers for recognizing those who depend on income earned through renting out short-term accommodation via Airbnb's website.
Under the bill, Airbnb said hosts or hosts with family members diagnosed with Covid-19 - the illness caused by the virus - would be able to apply for unemployment assistance.
Hosts deemed sole proprietors that report Airbnb income would also be eligible for small business loans to cover interest on mortgage payments, rent and utility bills if their business is impacted by the outbreak, Airbnb said.
A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU
Property Insights
Get an exclusive analysis of real estate and property news in Singapore and beyond.
Hosts who use independent contractors to clean or service properties would also be eligible for those loans to pay workers, the company said.
REUTERS
KEYWORDS IN THIS ARTICLE
BT is now on Telegram!
For daily updates on weekdays and specially selected content for the weekend. Subscribe to t.me/BizTimes
Property
Hong Kong home prices rise for first time in 11 months after curbs scrapped
HDB resale prices accelerate, rising 1.8% in Q1 on stronger demand
Singapore’s private home prices up 1.4% in Q1, rents drop by 1.9%: URA
OUE wins tender to lease, develop new ‘zero-energy’ hotel at Changi Airport’s T2
Singapore office rents in central region fall 1.7 per cent in Q1 over Q4: URA
Homebuyers shun new real estate in Vancouver, hurting builders