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Author: SouthStar Bank

Welcome Susan Forrest

Susan Forrest, Personal Banker | SouthStar Bank Bee Cave Branch Susan Forrest is joining the SouthStar Bank Bee Cave team as a Personal Banker. This is her first time working in the banking industry, but she is excited to bring her excellent customer service skills to Bee Cave. A graduate of California Polytechnic State University, Susan hopes to make all of her customers feel welcome and appreciated. In her free time, Susan enjoys hiking challenging trails Welcome Susan!

Welcome Aften Serrano

Aften Serrano, Assistant Vice President & Branch Manager | SouthStar Bank Leander Branch Aften Serrano joins the SouthStar Bank team as Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager at the Leander Branch. Aften brings 16 years of experience in the banking and finance industry to SouthStar Bank. Aften is most excited to bring her Texas community banking experience to the people of Leander. She is also looking forward to meeting and making lifelong customers. One of Aften’s biggest personal achievements is that she was able to start wildlife refuge efforts on her property. When she’s not working, Aften enjoys crafting, tubing, and running her home décor blog. She also enjoys traveling, and one of her favorite destinations is Costa Rica. An experienced traveler, Aften can pack for a week long trip in under 15 minutes. Welcome Aften!

Employee Spotlight – Deanna Whitson

Deanna Whitson, Assistant Vice President of Lending| SouthStar Bank Harker Heights Branch & Salado Loan Office Deanna Whitson is an Assistant Vice President of Lending at SouthStar Bank where she splits her time between the Harker Heights Branch and the Salado Loan Office. She has been with SouthStar Bank for two years and in that time has enjoyed building personal relationships with her clients. Deanna enjoys helping her customers reach their financial goal. Outside of work, Deanna enjoys being active in her community. She currently serves as a member of the Salado Chamber of Commerce, President of the Killeen – Fort Hood A&M Club, and Board member of Bell & Coryell Court Appointed Special Advocates. She also serves as Chairman for the Salado Rotary Club BBQ Cook-off and Salado Christmas Parade. Deanna loves helping her community wherever it is needed. One of her favorite volunteer events last year was the Salado Stroll at Santa’s Workshop. In her free time, Deanna enjoys a variety of hobbies such as reading, fishing, cooking, making jewelry, riding roller coasters, attending Aggie football games, and spending time with her family and friends. Deanna married her high school sweetheart and together they have two kids. Her idea of a dream vacation is being anywhere in the world as long as it’s with her family. NMLS#1103822

PPP Round 1: Loans for COVID-19 Payroll Assistance

What is the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)? NOTICES: The deadline to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Round 1 was August 8, 2020. Click here for more information on PPP Round 2, available through March 31, 2021. The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorizes up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses who maintain payroll during the COVID-19 crisis. Funds may be used for employee payroll (including paid sick or medical leave), employee salaries, mortgage interest payments, rent and utilities. Provides small businesses the opportunity to maintain workforce by providing funds for payroll, mortgage interest, rent and utilities Interest rate is a flat 1.0% for a max 2-year term. However, full amount may be forgiven (see PPP Loan forgiveness below) PPP loans are SBA loans, serviced through your local SBA lender – it is recommended to reach out to your primary bank or local lender first Only one PPP loan can be taken out per business (not per individual) Personal guarantees are not required What does this mean for my business? Businesses may qualify for forgivable loans in order to retain employees. The SBA can provide up to $10 million OR 2.5 times the average monthly salary over the 1-year period before the loan – whichever is less Each employee salary may not exceed $100k These loans may be used for payroll costs (including benefits), interest on mortgage obligations (incurred before Feb. 15, 2020), rent (under lease agreements in force before Feb. 15, 2020) and utilities (for which service began before Feb. 15, 2020) The first 6 months payment will be deferred, however, the loan will accrue interest Who Qualifies for a PPP Loan? All businesses which either: Have 500 or fewer employees Businesses in certain industries can have more than 500 employees if they meet applicable SBA employee-based size standards for those industries. Meet applicable NAICS Code-based size standard or other applicable SBA 7(a) loan size standard, both alone or together with its affiliates Eligible businesses include nonprofits, veterans organizations, Tribal business concerns, sole proprietorships, self-employed individuals, and independent contractors. In addition, businesses should show documentation of: Operation as of February 15, 2020 with paid employees or independent contractors Necessity of loan to support ongoing operations Funds will be used for payroll, mortgage obligations, rent or utilities How Long will PPP Funding Take? PPP applications will be accepted through your local lender and funding typically takes 2 days from receipt of completed application. Timeline is subject to change based on current volume. How do I apply for a PPP Loan? PPP applications will be accepted through your local lender beginning April 3, 2020. The SBA is continuing to provide guidance to the banks. At this time, we recommend gathering the following: Completed Paycheck Protection Program Application (SBA Form 2483) 2019 IRS Quarterly 940, 941, or 944 payroll tax reports Payroll reports for a twelve-month period (ending on your most recent payroll date), which will show the following information: Gross wages for each employee, including officer(s) if paid […]

SBA Relief Loans: EIDL and PPP

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) The Small Business Administration (SBA) has implemented relief loans for businesses affected by the COVID-19 situation. Loans include Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to provide access to working capital, and SBA 7(a) Relief Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to retain workforce through debt forgiveness for payroll and other eligible expenses during a defined covered period. A Preferred SBA Lender, SouthStar Bank is here to help and discuss available options for your business. NOTICES: The deadline to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was August 8, 2020. Learn more about PPP loans. Through Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), the SBA can provide up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the Coronavirus disaster not occurred. 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. EIDL Qualification Businesses who may qualify include: Small businesses and private, non-profit organizations within designated disaster areas of a state or territory Businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19 EIDL Application To apply for an EIDL, visit disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Required documentation includes: Completed SBA loan application (SBA Form 5) Tax Information Authorization (IRS Form 4506T) for the applicant, principals and affiliates Complete copies of the most recent Federal Income Tax Return Schedule of Liabilities (SBA Form 2202) Personal Financial Statement (SBA Form 413) Other Information that may also be requested: Complete copy, including all schedules, of the most recent Federal income tax return for principals, general partners or managing member, and affiliates (see filing requirements for more information) If the most recent Federal income tax return has not been filed, a year-end profit-and-loss statement and balance sheet for that tax year A current year-to-date profit-and-loss statement Additional Filing Requirements (SBA Form 1368) providing monthly sales figures Learn more about Economic Injury Disaster Loans.   SBA 7(a) Relief Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)   The CARES ACT authorizes up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses who maintain payroll during the COVID-19 crisis. Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans may be used for employee payroll, salaries, mortgage interest payments, rent and utilities. Loans will be eligible for forgiveness if workforce and pay levels are maintained. PPP Qualification Businesses who may qualify include: Businesses in need of funds to maintain workforce Businesses utilizing funds for payroll, mortgage obligations, rent or utilities All businesses with 500 of fewer employees. Businesses in certain industries may qualify with more than 500 employees if they meet applicable SBA employee-based size standards for those industries. PPP Application PPP applications will be accepted through your local lender beginning April 3, 2020. The SBA is continuing to provide guidance to the banks. At this time, we recommend gathering the following: Completed Paycheck Protection Program Application (SBA Form 2483) 2019 IRS Quarterly 940, 941, or 944 payroll tax reports Payroll reports for a twelve-month period (ending on your most recent payroll date), which will show the […]

Employee Spotlight – Dawn Embry

Dawn Embry, Vice President & Closing Manager| SouthStar Bank Mortgage Office Dawn Embry has been with SouthStar Bank for six and a half years. She currently serves as Vice President and Closing Manager, based in the Dripping Springs Mortgage Office. One of Dawn’s biggest professional accomplishments has been working her way up to her current position. Through her hard work and perseverance, she was able to start as a part time customer service representative, moving up steadily to her current role as Closing Manager. Dawn considers it a privilege to work with the SouthStar Bank staff and loan officers. She loves how every loan she works on is different. She also enjoys reviewing the appraisals of the beautiful homes around the Texas Hill Country. In her time away from work, Dawn enjoys spending time with family, her two dogs, Obi and Lucy, cooking, listening to music, walking and doing yoga. In addition, she likes to spend time with her two miniature donkeys, Daisy and Pimento. Dawn is a member of the Dripping Springs United Methodist Church. She one day hopes to visit a remote tropical island that is surrounded by turquoise blue water. NMLS#1295431

Loan Modification Options

Personalized assistance to aid customers affected by COVID-19 As a community financial services provider, SouthStar Bank strives to function as an integral part of the communities around us – including in trying times like these. With the financial unknowns of the coronavirus, we want our borrowers to know that SouthStar Bank is committed to helping qualified customers weather the challenges ahead. If you are suffering financial hardship caused by COVID-19, please contact your local SouthStar Bank  Branch or Loan Officer to discuss loan modification options. Unprecedented times call for unique solutions and we are ready to help. Initiatives are in place to assist the people and communities we serve withstand the extraordinary pressures triggered by COVID-19 and be better positioned to recover from its effects. SBA Disaster Loans In addition, the Small Business Administration (SBA) has implemented relief loans for businesses affected by the COVID-19 situation. Loans include Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to provide access to working capital, and SBA Paycheck Protection Loans (PPP) to retain workforce through debt forgiveness for payroll during a defined covered period. Please refer to SBA.gov for the latest information. The SouthStar Bank SBA Team is here to help and discuss available options for your business. Contact us at sba@southstarbank.com. As always, our mission is to provide friendly, flexible, common-sense financial solutions – Texas Style!

Employee Spotlight – Davonica France

Davonica France, Assistant Vice President & Branch Manager| SouthStar Bank Harker Heights Branch Davonica France works at the SouthStar Bank Harker Heights Branch. She serves as an Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager. Davonica has been with SouthStar Bank for six years and enjoys being able to assist her customers with their needs successfully. One of Davonica’s biggest work achievements is her recent promotion to AVP and Branch Manager— and we’re so proud! She loves expanding her knowledge and ability to go above and beyond for customers. Outside of work, Davonica serves as an Ambassador for the Harker Heights Chamber of Commerce. She also works with the refuge corporation at her church to help with the need in the area. Davonica is soon to be blessed with her second child. She loves spending time with her son outside or playing with cars. She one day hopes to take her son and daughter to Disney World. Davonica also has multiple hidden talents including the ability to draw and sing.

EIDL: Texas Disaster Loans for COVID-19 Assistance

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is providing Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) to businesses affected by Coronavirus (COVID-19). While Texas has been added to the current declared disaster areas , this is no longer required for eligibility. Businesses in all 50 states may begin the application now. What are Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs)? Loans available through the SBA to businesses suffering substantial economic injury Substantial economic injury is defined by a business’s inability to meet obligations and pay the regular operating expenses required. Provide necessary working capital to help small businesses stay afloat during disasters causing temporary loss of revenue The interest rates will not exceed 3.75% percent per year. Long-term payments are available (not to exceed 30 years). Repayment terms are determined by the borrower’s ability to repay the loan. The interest rate is 3.75% for small businesses and 2.75% for non-profits Businesses with credit available elsewhere are not eligible What does this mean for my business? The SBA can provide up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the Coronavirus disaster not occurred Loan amount is based on actual economic injury and your business’s financial needs, regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage. 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 Who Qualifies for an EIDL Loan? Small businesses and private, non-profit organizations within designated disaster areas of a state or territory – due to the current COVID-19 crisis, all 50 states are eligible Businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of Coronavirus Businesses who are unable to otherwise secure credit How Long will EIDL Funding Take? Typically, up to 4 weeks, through the three steps below. Apply Online Loan Processing Information is verified and credit checked Forecasts are completed to determine the loan amount An SBA case manager will contact you to make a recommendation and discuss next steps Decisions typically take 4 weeks Loan Closes and Funds Sign and submit loan documents Initial disbursement of $25k within 5 days An SBA Case Manager is assigned to assist you moving forward How do I apply for an EIDL Loan? Apply online: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance You may also contact the SBA disaster customer service center: 1.800.659.2955 disastercustomerservice@sba.gov TTY: 1.800.877.8339 In addition to the loan application, you will need to complete IRS Form 4506-Ts for: Owner Each principal that owns 20% or more Each general partner or managing member Each owner who owns more than 50% of an affiliate business At least two years complete business tax returns with all schedules Personal Financial Statement for each applicant Schedule of Liabilities for all fixed debts Optional: Items above plus 2 years complete financial statements P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Monthly revenue records for at least two years What other loan options are available? SBA 7(a) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans are also available. Click here to learn more about the difference between EIDL and PPP. Borrowers may apply […]

Employee Spotlight – Christy Owen

Christy Owen, Assistant Vice President & Portfolio Manager| SouthStar Bank Georgetown Branch Christy Owen is an Assistant Vice President and Portfolio Manager at SouthStar Bank. Christy is based in our Georgetown Branch, and has been with SouthStar Bank for a little under a year. She has over 19 years of experience in the banking and finance industry. Christy was born and raised in Georgetown and loves her community. She attended college at Southwestern University in Georgetown and has worked for various banks in the area. Christy loves that through her job she can help the people of her community with their financial needs. Christy has been married to her husband for 31 years and together they have two kids. In her free time, she enjoys fishing and vacationing in Colorado and New Mexico. NMLS# 1766851

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