COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program: What You Need To Know Now

Through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the U.S. Treasury Department has established a $349 billion fund that is available to help small businesses and the millions of small business employees across Michigan and the United States. The goal is to keep as many people employed during the pandemic shutdowns as possible. The program provides forgivable loans of up to $10 million, through approved lenders, to companies with less than 500 employees.

Take Advantage Today

Any small business that affirms that “current economic uncertainty” makes the aid necessary to support their “ongoing operations” is eligible.
Aid will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis until the fund is exhausted – the application window opened on April 3rd and loans are already being disbursed, but there’s still time! It’s also possible the fund will be supplemented by further government action.
The loans are forgivable and will allow small business owners to pay for up to eight (8) weeks of payroll costs if they use the money to retain workers or hire back positions they had to cut. Other expenses like your mortgage interest, rent, and utilities are also eligible for forgiveness. Some restrictions apply so make sure to check out the resources below and confirm the terms of forgiveness with your lender. Many of the usual requirements for these loans have been cut to streamline the process. There is still quite a bit of paperwork but we think it’s more than worth it for this unique offer.

How to Get Started

You have to apply through a bank or other lender, so contact yours today and mention the Paycheck Protection Program or do an online search for their application.
If your current bank is not an eligible lender, contact a nearby eligible bank using this search tool. More key information on who can and how to apply can be found here.
Gather your documents—each lender will have their own application, but you should begin collecting records of payroll, rent, and utilities.

Here is a short video our own Christina Welch with more information.