Which of your local businesses got payday protection loans and how much? (Page 2/2) maryjane MAY 13, 10:39 AM quote Originally posted by TheDigitalAlchemist: Are these loans which need to be paid back, or are they "forgiven/$ for free"? A combination of both. The funds can be used for a variety of things, but IF, they are used to keep their employees working or paid, then the funds are forgivable. If they are used for other things, like expansion or infrastructure, they are supposed to be repaid.