A Message to Our Customers
In addition, we want you to know that Fora Financial remains open and available to assist you. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your account, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected].
Select your state to see resources and assistance offered in your state:
Alabama began reopening businesses on May 1st, and the state entered its second stage on May 22nd. However, the state has since seen an increase in COVID-19 cases, so the governor is extending this phase until the end of July.
Last updated on July 9th.
Alabama News & COVID-19 Resources
On May 22nd, all businesses were given permission to reopen at 100% capacity. However, local communities were given the option to enforce stricter rules if they felt necessary.
Last updated on July 8th.
On May 8th, Arizona's governor gave retail stores the permission to reopen, with social distancing measures in place. In addition, barbershops and salons can also provide services.
Starting May 11th, restaurants were permitted to offer dine-in services, and the stay-at-home order ended on May 1th. However, Arizona's case numbers have significantly increased since these dates. Due to this, the state has "paused" its reopening plan. Until at least the end of July, bars, gyms, movie theaters, and water parks are closed.
Last updated on July 10th.
Arizona Coronavirus News & Updates
Arizona Department of Health Resources
Arkansas was one of the few states that didn’t issue a stay-at-home order due to COVID-19. However, restaurants, gyms, and personal service businesses were ordered to close. In early May, most of these businesses were given permission to reopen with guidelines in place. However, the state's reopening plan has since been paused due to an increase in cases.
Last updated on July 9th.
At this time, the state is reopening on a county by county basis. Due to the state's increase in COVID-19 cases, the state has closed bars, indoor dining, and other indoor activities in some counties until case numbers decrease.
Last updated on July 10th.
California Department of Health
On April 26th, the state's stay-at-home order expired, and businesses began reopening on a rolling basis in May and June.
Unfortunately, many of Colorado's neighboring states have since seen an uptick in COVID-19 cases. In response, the governor announced on July 1st that bars would be closed until further notice. To reopen bars, counties will need to meet certain criteria. He also extended the state's Safer at Home phase.
At this time, casinos remain closed.
Last updated on July 10th.
Colorado COVID-19 Information Page
Connecticut is one of the states in the Northeastern coalition that’s working to create economic recovery in the area. The state began reopening on May 20th.
Currently, the state is in phase two. Originally, it was projected that the state would enter phase three by now, but the governor postponed this due to increased case numbers in neighboring states. At this time, bars remain closed.
Last updated on July 9th.
Connecticut COVID-19 Resources
Connecticut Unemployment Resources
Delaware’s shelter in place order expired on May 31st, but some restrictions were lifted prior to this date. The state is part of the Northeastern coalition working to resume operations in this area of the country.
On June 15th, the state began phase two, and was scheduled to begin phase three by the end of the month. However, Delaware's COVID-19 case numbers increased, and the governor has since delayed the start of phase three.
Last updated on July 10th.
Delaware Coronavirus Resources
The state’s stay at home order ended on April 30th. On May 4th, certain businesses were given permission to reopen, except for businesses in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach counties.
Due to a significant surge in COVID cases, the governor announced on June 26th that all bars will be closed until case numbers decrease.
Last updated on July 10th.
Georgia’s shelter in place order ended on April 30th. However, individuals who are medically fragile and elderly individuals were advised to shelter in place until June 12th. Although the state has seen an uptick in COVID-19 cases, the reopening plan is still in effect.
Last updated on July 9th.
Hawaii's stay-at-home order ended on May 31st. Each island has permission to set its own reopening plan with the governors approval.
Last updated on July 9th.
On May 1st, the state began stage one of their recovery plan, which allowed some businesses to reopen with social distancing measures in place. The state was on schedule, moving to a new stage almost every two weeks since May 1st. However, case numbers began to climb, so the full reopening has been postponed until further notice.
Last updated on July 10th.
On June 26, Illinois moved into its fourth reopening phase. In this phase, restaurants and bars can reopen for in-person service. In addition, schools and daycare centers can resume their operations. However, Chicago is following its own reopening plan, which is slower than the rest of the state.
Last updated on July 9th.
Indiana is part of the Midwest coalition of states collaborating on re-opening safely.
On May 4th, the state began its reopening plan. It was projected that Indiana would begin the fifth and final stage of its reopening plan this month, which would've lifted business' capacity restrictions. However, the governor announced that the state would postpone moving to the final stage due to an increase in COVID-19 cases.
Last updated on July 10th.
Iowa is one of the few states that didn’t declare a stay-at-home-order due to COVID-19. However, social distancing and business closures were required. In some counties with higher virus activity closures were extended through May 15th.
Capacity limits were lifted for all businesses on June 10th.
Last updated on July 8th.
Kansas’s stay-at-home order ended on Monday, May 4th and the state began to reopen businesses with social distancing measures in place.
Beginning July 3rd, Kansas residents and visitors were ordered to wear masks in public.
Last updated on July 8th.
The state began its reopening plan in early May, and all industries have since been given clearance to reopen. However, gatherings are still limited to 50 people or less.
Last updated on July 8th.
Kentucky Unemployment Resources
Louisiana's stay-at-home order expired on May 15th, and the state later moved to phase two of its reopening plan on June 5th. However, after seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases, the governor has postponed progression to the third phase.
At this time, concert venues and amusement parks remain closed.
Last updated on July 10th.
Louisiana Unemployment Resources
The state's stay-at-home order expired on May 31st. Counties with a small number of COVID-19 cases were given permission to open quicker than those with large numbers. At this time, most businesses have been given clearance to reopen. However, bars are still closed for indoor service.
Last updated on July 9th.
On March 30th, Governor Larry Hogan issued a stay-at-home order for the state, which ended on May 1th in most counties. At this time, most industries have been given permission to reopen, with the exception of theaters.
Last updated on July 9th.
Massachusetts four phased reopening began in May. The third phase began on July 6th. However, Boston hasn't been given clearance to proceed.
At this time, bars, entertainment-related businesses, and gyms remain closed.
Last updated on July 9th.
Massachusetts COVID-19 Information
Massachusetts Unemployment Insurance
Michigan’s stay-at-home order expired on June 1st, with many industries given clearance to reopen the following week. However, the governor has since paused the state's reopening and closed indoor bars in most of the state's counties. In addition, gyms remain closed.
Last updated on July 10th.
Minnesota’s stay-at-home order ended May 17th, and most businesses received clearance to reopen with guidelines in place.
Currently, the state is in Phase 3 of its reopening plan. Businesses are being asked to encourage telework whenever possible and have a COVID-19 preparedness plan in place. In addition, retail stores and restaurants can't exceed 50 percent capacity.
Last updated on July 8th.
Minnesota Unemployment Benefits
On June 1st, the state allowed all businesses to reopen on June 1st. However, the state saw its highest daily increase in cases the following week. Due to this, the governor has since paused further reopening plans.
Last updated on July 10th.
The stay-at-home order for Missouri residents ended on May 3rd, and all business restrictions were lifted on June 16th. However, the state has seen large single-day increases in COVID-19 cases since then.
Last updated on July 8th.
The state’s phased reopening began on April 27th, with main street and retail businesses being allowed to reopen on this date as long as social distancing measures were met. On June 1st, all businesses were given permission to roepen with guidelines in place.
On May 7th, schools were given the option to reopen for the remainder of the academic year.
Last updated on July 8th.
Nebraska is among the few states that didn’t issue a stay-at-home order. However, restrictions were set for business operations.
The state's reopening plan began on May 4th. Currently, most of the state is in Phase 3.
Last updated on July 8th.
Nevada's stay-at-home order was scheduled to end on May 15th, but the governor decided to end it on April 27th instead. On June 1st, all businesses were permitted to reopen. However, after an increase in COVID-19 cases, the governor postponed the state's full reopening on July 1st.
Last updated on July 10th.
Starting June 15th, most industries given the clearance to begin reopening as the stay-at-home order expired. The final round of businesses were given permission to reopen on June 29th. These businesses include amusement parks, indoor movie theaters, and performing arts centers.
Last updated on July 8th.
New Hampshire COVID-19 Resources
New Hampshire Unemployment Benefits
In the state's "Road Back" plan, Governor Murphy outlined six metrics that would dictate when restrictions would be lifted. These metrics include 14-days of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations declining, and more testing throughout the state.
New Jersey's stay-at-home order was lifted on June 9th, with businesses reopening throughout May and June. As of July 9th, indoor dining has yet to commence. In addition, breweries, wineries, distilleries, and movie theaters remain closed.
Last updated on July 9th.
New Jersey Unemployment Benefits
New Mexico’s reopening plan began on May 1st, in which some nonessential businesses were given permission to partially reopen with delivery and curbside pickup services on May 16th. However, the state's stay-at-home order was extended until May 31st.
The state's next phase of reopening has been delayed until further notice. Bars, casinos, and theaters remain closed.
Last updated on July 10th.
New Mexico Unemployment Benefits
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo released a 12-step reopening plan on April 27th. In each phase, regional hospitalization rates must decline for 14 days. In each phase, officials will evaluate a business’s overall importance and risk to the public if they were to reopen.
By June 24th, all New York regions (excluding New York City) had reached the third stage. On July 6th, NYC began phase three. However, indoor dining is still not permitted.
Movie theaters, casinos, amusement parks, bowling alleys, and gyms remain closed throughout the state.
Last updated on July 9th.
North Carolina began reopening businesses in May. Unfortunately, the state saw an increase in cases by late June, and the governor decided to delay proceeding further in the reopening plan. In addition, residents are now required to wear face coverings in public.
Bars, gyms, nightclubs, and movie theaters remain closed.
Last updated on July 10th.
North Carolina COVID-19 Resources
North Carolina Unemployment Insurance
On May 1st, many businesses were given clearance to re-open, including bars, restaurants, recreational facilities, and salons. However, social distancing must be maintained, in addition to patrons and employees wearing face masks.
Per the state's governor on June 23rd, several counties in the state are close to reaching the final reopening plan stage. Reaching this stage would allow businesses to resume normal operations, while still following some basic precautions to continue avoiding the spread of COVID-19.
Last updated on July 8th.
North Dakota COVID-19 Resources
North Dakota Unemployment Benefits
The state's stay-at-home order was lifted on May 1st. Since then, businesses have been given permission to reopen with safety guidelines in place. However, on July 2nd, the Governor asked seven of the state's counties to limit activities as much as possible to avoid further spread. In addition, face masks in public are now required in these areas.
Last updated on July 9th.
The state's three-phase reopening plan began on April 24th. Currently, the state is in the final phase, which began in June. In this final phase, all business restrictions have been lifted and group gatherings can commence. However, residents are still encouraged to social distance.
Last Updated on July 8th.
Last updated on July 10th.
The state is part of the Northeastern states coalition, working together to reopen the economy. Currently, Pennsylvania's reopening phases are broken down into three colors; red, yellow, and green. In addition, wearing a mask is required in public.
By June 5th, all counties had began a reopening phase and most businesses have reopened in some capacity.
Last updated on July 9th.
Pennsylvania COVID-19 Resources
Pennsylvania Unemployment Benefits
Rhode Island is part of the Eastern coalition working together to reopen the economy. In addition, Rhode Island is offering a smartphone app for residents called "Crushing COVID." State residents can utilize this app to learn about the latest reopening plans.
The state's stay-at-home order expired on May 8th, with phase one of their three-phase reopening plan beginning the next day. Currently, the state is in the final stage, with most businesses given clearance to reopen. However, the governor revised phase three to reduce indoor social gatherings to a maximum of 25 people.
Last updated on July 9th.
Rhode Island COVID-19 Resources
Rhode Island Unemployment Benefits
On May 4th, South Carolina’s “Work-or-Home” order was lifted. The state allowed outdoor dining services to resume at this time, and dining rooms can also now reopen with some restrictions in place. Retail stores have also been given clearance to reopen at 20% capacity.
On May 18th, public or commercial pools, commercial gyms, fitness and exercise centers, and close contact service providers were permitted to open with limited capacity. In addition, tourist attractions were permitted to open by Memorial Day. However, with cases rising throughout the state, concert venues, nightclubs, race tracks, and movie theaters remain closed.
Last updated on July 10th.
South Carolina COVID-19 Updates
South Dakota is one of the few states that didn’t issue a stay-at-home order or close essential businesses due to the COVID19 crisis.
Last updated on July 8th.
The state's reopening plan began on April 27th, and all counties are now in some phase of reopening. However, the state has recently seen a spike in COVID-19 cases, causing some areas to pause or limit next steps.
Last updated on July 9th.
Tennessee Unemployment Insurance
The state’s stay-at-home order expired on May 1st, and nonessential businesses such as restaurants, retail stores, movie theaters and libraries were given clearance to reopen at 25 percent capacity. Since then, most businesses were permitted to reopen with guidelines in place.
After a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, the governor closed bars and reduced restaurant capacity. On July 3rd, he asked residents to stay home when possible. In addition, in counties with more than 20 positive cases, face coverings are required.
Last updated on July 10th.
Although Utah didn’t have a stay-at-home order in place, Governor Gary Herbert mandated “moderate risk” protocols that ended on May 16th.
On May 1st, restaurants were given permission to provide in-house dining if they followed safety measures. Since then, most industries, including gyms and salons have received permission to reopen.
Last updated on July 9th.
The state’s stay-at-home order was extended until May 15th, but many businesses were able to reopen on May 4th, including construction and distribution companies. On May 18th, the state's reopening plan commenced. Since then, gyms, restaurants, and other businesses have reopened.
Last updated on July 9th.
Virginia’s reopening plan began on May 15th in most of the state. However, northern Virginia remained closed until May 28th. As of July 1st, all counties are in Phase 3.
Last updated on July 9th.
At this time, all of Washington's counties have entered the state's reopening plan. However, the governor will not let any county move to phase four at this time. In addition, face masks are covered in all public places.
Last updated on July 10th.
Washington Unemployment Resources
West Virginia’s governor released a six-week reopening plan, which began on April 30th. Nonessential businesses that are permitted to reopen must practice social distancing, wear face coverings, and sanitize their establishment. Additional guidance was given to certain industries to ensure a safe reopening.
The first phase allowed non-urgent medical procedures to resume, and the second phase enabled small businesses with less than 10 employees to open.
On May 18th, fitness centers, gyms, and recreation centers were permitted to reopen with guidelines in place.
In addition, indoor dining and retail stores could resume service on May 21st. This also includes shopping malls. On May 26th, bars opened at 50% capacity, in addition to museums, zoos, and visitor centers.
Last Updated on July 9th.
West Virginia COVID-19 Website
West Virginia Unemployment Resources
Wisconsin’s stay-at-home order was initially extended until May 26th, but the Wisconsin Supreme Court overturned it, ruiling it unlawful and unenforceable. At this time, there are no other COVID-19 plans for the state, but some counties have placed their own restrictions on businesses.
Last updated on July 8th.
Wisconsin Department of Health
One of the few states without a stay-at-home order, Wyoming began reopening businesses on May 1st. However, the state has since seen an increase in COVID-19 cases. To combat this, the governor is extending restrictions for bars, gyms, and restaurants until at least July 15th.
Last updated on July 10th.
What Can My Business Do During This Time:
Stay Up to Date on the Latest News:
In many states, non-essential businesses were required to close and are now in the process of reopening. In many cases, there are capacity and safety measures in place. If unsure, please visit your state governor’s website for more information.
Contact Your Customers:
Focus on Generating Revenue :
If your business’s typical operations have been affected by COVID-19, you can still generate sales by offering discounted gift cards for future purchases, selling items online, and offering virtual consultations when possible.
In addition, if you’ve been able to reopen your business, ensure that you have ample working capital available. This will enable you to invest in your business and hopefully return to normal operations.
The CARES Act
To support small businesses affected by COVID-19, The U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship has passed The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). Through the CARES Act, the SBA will facilitate financing and resources to ensure that business owners can survive these trying times.
Below, we’ll review the main financing programs included in the CARES Act.
Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL):
Paycheck Protection Program:
To learn more about The CARES Act and how applying for these financing options could help your business, Click Here.
Have An Account with Us And Have Questions?
Contact UsUseful Articles About COVID-19:
We’ll include additional resources as they become available, so check back often:
- COVID-19 Small Business Resources: America’s Small Business Development Center (CBDC) compiled this resource list for business owners affected by COVID-19.
- How Coronavirus (COVID-19) is Impacting Small Businesses and What You Can Do About It: This article from Business 2 Community offers digestible tips that business owners can follow during this uncertain time.
- 4 Simple Steps for SMBs to Support Remote Workers (In a Hurry, if Necessary): Because of social distancing, it’s encouraged that people work from home if possible. Luckily, SmallBizClub created this helpful guide to setting up a remote workforce quickly.
- Resources for Small Business Aid Amidst the COVID-19 Crisis: This list from StartupNation includes free resources, discounts, and financial options for businesses affected by COVID-19.
