@abcd2: If the employees come to work and get laid off in the morning, mid-day or afternoon, by law they are entitled to THAT day’s pay.
@Obominator: This must be a very difficult time for you.
If I may add my 2 cents:
Find a very good labor lawyer. Do not say anything to your employees until you know which terminology, words, phrases, by law you may use. The language/words you use can be detrimental depending on the background of a specific employee. I worked on Wall Street and “took notes” when there were layoffs. The law is very intricate and delicate and does NOT allow for mistakes the misuse of words or phrases.
Fina a very good accountant who knows the unemployment laws in the state that you have your business.
Set up an appointment for you, the labor lawyer and the accountant to make a game plan. Every penny has to be accounted for. Every word has to be perfect. I can’t say this enough. I can’t stress this enough.
Ask them for any advise that you might need. Such as which day you should let your employees go/know.
Much hatzlacha to you.