The U.S. Small Business Administration is gearing up for what’s being called an “unprecedented" level of funding soon to be available under the new Paycheck Protection Program.

Sole proprietors, independent contractors, gig economy workers, and self-employed individuals who are struggling to pay their bills due to the shutdowns and stay-in-place orders aimed at curbing the spread of the coronavirus are all eligible for a small-business loan. The $350 billion program is part of the $2 trillion economic stimulus package passed by Congress last week and signed into law by President Donald Trump on Friday. However, it is still unclear when the program will begin accepting applications.

The Economic Injury Disaster Loan program will also offer up to $2 million for working capital costs, with a possible $10,000 advance grant that will be forgiven if applied to a permissible use, including payroll, paid time off, mortgage, rent, utilities, and debts from prior to Feb. 15, 2020. If the loan is used for other purposes, the borrower will have 30 years to pay it off at an interest rate of no more than 3.75%, with the first month’s payment deferred a full year from the date of the promissory note.

For more information, visit the National Association of REALTORS®' coronavirus advocacy frequently asked questions page and click on "Independent Contractor/Small Business Concerns."

Source: "Banks press administration to unleash $350B in small business loans," Politico (March 31, 2020)