Resources for Impacted Businesses & Employees
COVID-19
Many businesses and workers have been impacted by the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, we've compiled a list of available resources, programs and updates from local, state and federal sources. We will continue to update this page as new resources become available.
Washington State Resources
Governor Inslee announced additional resources for small businesses impacted by the latest round of COVID-19 restrictions. For more information, visit the Washington State Department of Commerce's StartUp Washington page.
(re)Startup 425
The Bellevue Downtown Association has partnered with other community organizations in support of (re)Startup425: a collaborative program that connects businesses and nonprofits to resources, provides one-on-one financial technical assistance, and shares your ongoing business operations with the community. Their Business Response Team can provide free technical advising to assist in accessing financial options (like grants and SBA loans), becoming loan-ready, and retaining employees. Visit (re)Startup425 for more information.
City of Bellevue Resource Guide
The City has deployed programs to assist impacted businesses, artists, freelancers and contractors. The City is also coordinating with regional business and nonprofit support partners, including the Bellevue Downtown Association, to help people stay informed and to offer assistance as needed. View their resource page for more programs and updates.
Economic Injury Disaster Loans
Small businesses and other organizations are eligible to apply for low interest U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loans to offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- To Apply:
- Use the SBA’s online application portal.
- Important Information:
- The program offers up to $2 million in assistance for fixed debts, payroll, and other account expenses with an interest rate of 3.75 percent for small businesses and 2.75 percent for nonprofits.
- Loans under $200,000 can be approved without a personal guarantee. Businesses can receive an emergency advance of up to $10,000 to small businesses and private non-profits harmed by COVID-19 within three days of applying for an SBA EIDL.
Washington State Assistance
The Governor’s Office has announced resources to support economic retention and recovery related to COVID-19 impacts.
Financial Assistance:
- Tax Filing Extensions
The Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR) can work with impacted companies that request an extension on tax filing. A business may request such an extension from the Department prior to the due date of the return, and, if granted, the business would be allowed to delay reporting and paying its tax liability. View the resource page for more information. - Late Fees and Penalties
DOR may also waive penalties under limited circumstances if a business is late in paying its tax obligation. The Department may also provide a one-time, 24 month, late payment penalty waiver if the business has not owed a late payment penalty during the previous 24 months. View the resource page for more information.
Employer and Worker Assistance:
- Unemployment Assistance
The Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD) provides unemployment benefits. View the ESD website for more information. - Paid Family and Medical Leave
ESD’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program can provide paid leave benefits for Washington workers who need to take time off from work due to serious health conditions or to care for a family member with a serious health condition. Certification by a healthcare provider is required for applications for Paid Family and Medical Leave due to a serious health condition. - Rapid Response Services
If COVID-19 disrupts a Washington business and causes a mass layoff or closure, ESD and its local workforce development board partners can respond with Rapid Response services and funding to help impacted workers get connected to unemployment benefits and re-employment services, including re-training, worker support services, and referrals to other social services.
Community Partners | Assistance for Impacted Businesses & Residents
Businesses and organizations are offering their own support programs for those impacted.
Bellevue Boys & Girls Club
- Continued Operation
Boys & Girls Clubs of Bellevue (BGCB) is responding to the critical needs of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic by extending hours at its largest, most-well equipped sites to provide childcare and up to three meals per day for essential workers and vulnerable children. Find out more information on their website.
Bellevue Chamber of Commerce
- Support for Impacted Organizations
The Bellevue Chamber has a dedicated form set up for organizations seeking guidance and connection in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. - Opportunities to Help
Businesses, organizations and individuals looking to support the community can contact the Chamber for opportunities and a list of needs.
First Tech Federal Credit Union
- First Tech is offering a number of loan assistance options to provide short and long-term relief to members impacted by COVID-19. Anyone can quickly and easily become a member to take advantage. Please visit their website or a local Experience Center.