Commercial Banking COVID-19 Support

Business Information and Resources

Wednesday, April 1, 2020

We're Here To Help.

As a commercial borrower, if you are facing financial hardships related to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are here to help.  Whether you have a regular commercial term loan or an SBA Loan there are options for you. Please contact your Relationship Manager to discuss the details.  

CONTACT THE SBA

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The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act has been passed.  It contains a number of provisions to help businesses.  These include an SBA lending expansion entitled the Paycheck Protection Program, which will cover 8 weeks of worker pay, with the possibility of having the loan forgiven if requirements are met.  The act also expands the SBA’s EIDL program eligibility and makes it easier to apply.  Business tax credits are yet another component of the CARES Act.  Finally, it puts in place changes that affect paid sick leave and paid FMLA by modifying the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.  

As a preferred SBA lender, First Merchants is also able to make certain SBA loan modifications for existing borrowers.  For both 7A and 504 loans, the bank has deferral options as needed.  

CONTACT US FOR HELP


Businesses may also inquire directly with the SBA about the expanded; Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program, which is a direct loan program through the federal government.  We will keep you posted on any future developments with regard to SBA lending.

APPLY FOR A LOAN

 

Midwest State Resources Available to Business Owners

As we maneuver these difficult times, each state is also making COVID-19 resources available to business owners. For your reference, we’re including some of the Midwest official state government COVID-19 resource pages for you here:

Additionally, if you live or do business in a rural area, there may be additional government COVID-19 rural support available to you.  

We’re offering you a 6-month free trial of Remote Deposit Capture

We are making it easier to bank with First Merchants.  With these uncertain times, as the nation deals with the impact of COVID-19, we are thinking of ways we can help you save time while protecting yourself and your team.  Now through April 30th, we’re offering a Remote Deposit Capture (RDC) promotion in which we’ll waive the fee for a period of 6 months.  There are also no cancellation fees should you decide it wasn’t the right solution for you.  

With the Remote Deposit solution, you will benefit from a technology that will accelerate your receivables by depositing checks right from your office.  Benefits include saving time and money over depositing at the branch. This will also limit the amount of in-person bank transactions you may be conducting, while keeping your team safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Call 1.866.833.0050 to get set-up for RDC

We Want to Make Wiring Money More Accessible to You 

During this time with limited lobby service in our banking centers, we want to make wiring money more accessible to you.  With our Online Wire Promotion, we will waive the Wire Module fee for 6 months. If you decide to cancel after 6 months, there will be no cancellation fees.  Another benefit of Online Wires, is a reduction in the standard price for submitting both domestic and international wires.  Wire Transfer is the fastest, safest method to transfer money within the U.S. or to a foreign country.

Call 1.866.833.0050 to start wiring money today

Digital and Mobile Banking 

We encourage you to continue banking through our digital banking options – online banking and mobile application - which are robust and easy to use wherever you are.  

Enroll in Business Online Banking

Download the First Merchants Business Mobile Banking App

Using the First Merchants Business Mobile App, you'll be able to:

  • Access your accounts
  • Deposit checks
  • Make payments
  • Pay your bills
  • Transfer funds

FAQs

If I’m a current SBA borrower, can I modify my loan?

  • Yes, you may be eligible.  Depending on whether you have a 7a or 504 loan and your current situation, we will review and consider your needs.  Please contact your Relationship Manager.  

What is an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)?

  • The SBA EIDL is a low-interest, fixed rate loan.  Borrowers apply directly through the federal government and may be eligible for up to $2million in assistance.  

What can a disaster loan be used for?

  • These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact. The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses. The interest rate for non-profits is 2.75%.

How do I make an appointment at a banking center?

  • Contact your Relationship Manager or a Banking Center Manager to make appointments. 

What if I can’t get to a banking center to sign my loan documents?

  • We have an option for you to be able to sign documents and scan them to us.  Please contact your Relationship Manager.  

If I have a commercial loan but not under SBA do I qualify for a modification.

  • All borrowers in good standing will be considered, depending on their individual situation.  Please contact your Relationship Manager to discuss. 

How do I know if a banking center is open?

  • All of our banking centers are available by appointment, and if there is a drive-thru those services are available during regular business hours.