How does my business access money from the federal bill? 
By: Brad Meier, OACCT President
Happy Thursday, April 2nd,  
The big question from businesses this week, how do I access stimulus dollars and which program is right for me?  Here's starting points:
1. SBA’s Emergency Disaster Loan program (and $10,000 grant) is live at https://covid19relief.sba.gov/#/.  You can submit this on your own. (Note: it may be a shorter process than what’s stated on the application).
2. Payroll Protection Program-you will work through your local financial institution to submit this application.  You can access an application here.  Please NOTE: The SBA portal isn’t open until Friday (4/3) at the EARLIEST, so your banker isn’t able to submit until the SBA opens their systems.  Also know that some institutions will want your application submitted electronically and some will take paper copies-please contact your financing organization to find out directly.
3. Employee Retention tax credit information and other programs within the CARES Act should be discussed with your accountant and/or financial institution.  Remember, you aren’t able to use all the programs, so make sure you discuss what works best for your situation.
Please know your banker / credit union is working hard on this.  Financial institutions are receiving updated information and guidance, especially as it relates to the Payroll Protection Program, on a very frequent and ongoing basis.  There are still many unanswered questions as the government attempts to put together a $350 billion program in one week’s time.  There very well may be delays tomorrow as it is anticipated the SBA online portal will be swamped.