On behalf of the Branson community, our hearts go out to everyone affected by the coronavirus and the far-reaching impact it is having on our daily lives.
As we all deal with these extraordinary circumstances, our first and most important responsibility is everyone’s safety. The city of Branson has advised most businesses to limit gatherings of groups, planned or spontaneous, to 10 or less people at this time.
We are actively monitoring developments surrounding the coronavirus. Once again, we want to emphasize that the safety and health of our visitors, residents and employees is of paramount importance to us.
Branson/Lakes Area Business Resources
The Branson/Lakes Area Chamber & CVB and Taney County Partnership have reorganized staff to better serve Branson over the next eight weeks. New teams have developed to provide timely information and direct people in our community to valuable resources.
Our team is standing by to provide COVID-19 and business-related assistance, provide clarity and share critical resources. To speak directly with a live representative of our organization call (417) 334-4084.
Access the most recent version of our Business Impact Newsletter and CLICK HERE to get added to the mailing list:
https://conta.cc/33KMqqM
SBA Disaster Loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration will be offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19. SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance and can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing.
SBA DISASTER LOAN ASSISTANCE APPLICATION
For program questions or assistance in completing the application online, businesses can contact the SBA Customer Service Center directly at 1-800-659-2955 or create an online appointment by following this link to the Small Business Development Center.
Unemployment Resources: Employers
The Missouri Department of Labor has assembled several links and videos to help employers make informed decisions during this difficult period. The resources listed below do not replace the comprehensive information available on the Department of Labor website but rather represent information commonly requested by employers.
FILING A CONTRIBUTION & WAGE REPORT
SHARED WORK PROGRAM – a lay-off aversion program
FILING A MASS CLAIM – Expedite filing multiple claims for your employees.
Tax representatives contact information: 573-751-1995 or esemptax@labor.mo.gov
EMPLOYMENT TRANSITION TEAM (ETT)
Managing staffing reductions and layoffs can be a grueling experience. The decision to lay off employees is one no employer wants to make. However, when layoffs do occur, it’s good to know you have a support team ready to meet with affected workers and offer assistance.
The Employment Transition Team (ETT) is available at no cost to businesses and affected workers. As part of the ETT, a Regional Workforce Coordinator and local workforce system staff are available to provide guidance to employers and reemployment services for affected employees.
Contact the Missouri Job Center or call the State number at 1-800-877-8698.
Unemployment Resources: Employees
If this is your first time filing for unemployment please watch this video on unemployment basics.