SMALL BUSINESS ASSISTANCE

Starting April 3, 2020, small businesses and sole proprietorships can apply for and receive loans to cover up to 8 weeks of payroll and other certain expenses through existing SBA lenders. In addition, there is a provision for loans to be fully forgiven. If you are not aware of the PPP program, please see the overview information below or click here for the most current information. 

Paycheck Protection Program Basic Overview

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Although formal guidance from SBA is pending, staff have reached out to our local partners to provide you with the best practice guidance. Here is what we have learned to date:

PREPARE FOR YOUR APPLICATION NOW:

1. Although recent reports suggest loans may be made as early as April 3, banks are working to understand the process as well. In addition, although a loan application emerged last evening, it may not be the final application.

2. Early feedback from banks is they will focus on existing customer applications first. To the extent that is true, reaching out to your current bankers now is suggested.

3. Take a look at the “sample application” attached. It may or may not be the final, it is reflective of the type of information you will be asked to provide. Having the information available during the application process is critical.

4. Since the loan/grant under the PPP is based on employment wages, past wage statements will get close scrutiny. Although less may be needed, it is recommended you have two years of payroll records available; ideally your Form 941’s.

5. You will be asked for banking records, including business tax returns and financials (balance sheets, income statements). While not required, two years of records may be useful.