FamilyFirst Loan

West Michigan Community Bank, in conjunction with Bethany Christian Services, is making it easier and more affordable to complete the adoption process that will bring a new face to your family circle.

The FamilyFirst Loan program was developed to help bridge the gap between the time you need funds to complete the adoption process and the time you receive your Federal tax credit/refund for adoption expenses. This special borrowing opportunity, designed specifically for clients of Bethany Christian Services, gives many families that added flexibility and financial support necessary to complete their new family circle. Here's how the program works.

Apply for a FamilyFirst Loan
Complete the short application (PDF) and fax it to West Michigan Community Bank at 616.669.7944.


Response From Your Banking Partner
West Michigan Community Bank will respond to your loan request within one business day. Once your application is approved, loan documentation will be mailed to you for your signature(s). When the loan forms are returned to the bank, proceeds will be forwarded directly to the corporate offices of Bethany Christian Services in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for payment on your account.

Submit Tax Obligation Worksheet
After your loan application is approved you will also need to submit a tax obligation worksheet (PDF) to Bethany's National Accounting Department. You can fax it to to the Accounting Manager at 616.574.7966.

Loan Payments
Your payments are lower than those associated with more conventional personal loans because you only pay interest on the principal balance each month, with the principal balance being repaid in a lump sum on or before the loan maturity date. For your convenience, monthly payments can be made via automatic deductions from your checking account.

Loan Terms and Conditions
The term of the FamilyFirst loan can be up to 60 months. The maximum loan amount is $20,000 upon approval by West Michigan Community Bank. There is no penalty for early pay off. In addition, your loan is unsecured so there's no need for surveys, appraisals, or other expensive qualifying requirements. The loan proceeds are first applied toward Bethany Fees and Country Fees. Any remaining proceeds can be used to cover additional qualified adoption expenses. Please check with your local Bethany Branch to see if the loan is available in your area.

Questions?
Call 1.800.664.1778, ext. 376 if you would like to know more about the FamilyFirst loan program. For more information about West Michigan Community Bank, visit their Website - www.wmcb.com