As federal employees go without pay, local and national banks are prepared to support impacted customers.

The Finance Authority of Maine has announced the availability of the Government Shutdown Loan Guarantee Program, which guarantees repayment of a portion of loans given by eligible banks and credit unions to federal or state employees impacted by a shutdown.

Franklin Savings Bank and cPort Credit Union were the only two agencies listed as participants on the program’s website as of Friday, but FAME encourages clients to check with their local lending institution to see if they have since enrolled or are in the process of doing so.

LOCAL BANKS

In addition to supporting customers, many local banks say they are focusing their philanthropic and community partnership efforts toward supporting food pantries and other anti-hunger organizations, as nearly 170,000 face a pause in their SNAP this November due to the shutdown.

ANDROSCOGGIN BANK: Androscoggin Bank is working with clients who are federal employees impacted by the shutdown on a case-by-case basis. Those impacted are encouraged to call them at 800-966-9172 or go to their local branch to see what assistance is available for them.

BANGOR SAVINGS BANK: Bangor Savings Bank is encouraging any clients experiencing hardship due to the shutdown to call them at 877-226-4671 or visit their local branch to speak with a banker.

SACO & BIDDEFORD SAVINGS: Saco & Biddeford Savings is working with customers to support them in their challenges during the shutdown. Customers can call 207-284-4591 or visit their local branch to discuss their needs.

TOWN & COUNTRY: Town & Country Federal Credit Union is offering crisis assistance relief loans for qualifying customers who are experiencing a loss of a job or a reduction in income. Some may also apply for other resources, such as fee relief. Customers can call 207-773-5656 to discuss their options or go to their local branch.

NATIONAL

BANK OF AMERICA: Bank of America clients impacted by the shutdown may be eligible for benefits similar to what customers get following a natural disaster. Those include fee waivers and loan deferrals. Customers can call 800-432-1000 or go to a local branch.

CHASE BANK: Chase Bank says it may be able to help customers experiencing hardship due to the shutdown, such as concerns over making mortgage, credit card or car payments. Those impacted are directed to call Chase’s special care line at 800-254-7713.

USAA: Federal employees who are USAA members may qualify for a no-interest loan equal to the amount of their paycheck, up to $6,000, during the shutdown. Those affected are advised to go to usaa.com/relief to explore their options.

TD BANK: TD Bank has activated its TD Cares program to help furloughed federal employees, contractors and other clients whose federal benefits are impacted by the shutdown. They are offering fee refunds and loan assistance. Impacted clients are encouraged to visit a nearby TD Bank location or call a 24/7 support line at 888-751-9000.