Taiwan Business Bank is opening emergency lending for people and businesses hit by heavy rain in central and southern Taiwan, which is good news for flood victims short on cash.

• Damaged small and mid-sized businesses can borrow for repairs, new machinery, and getting back to work.
• Existing loans can be pushed back, easing pressure on borrowers who cannot pay right now.
• Households can borrow up to NT$2 million to rebuild or repair a home, including some money for furniture, appliances, and a vehicle.
• Home repair applications must come in within four months of the flooding; businesses have six months to apply for rebuilding help.
• The bank is also helping with insurance claims and lost credit cards, and will send staff to people who cannot come in.

Outlook: Expect more banks and government agencies to roll out similar flood relief as damage reports come in.