SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of the West announced today that it is providing assistance to customers affected by the federal government shutdown.

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For customers who have been furloughed by the federal government, Bank of the West is granting one-month deferrals on consumer loan payments and one-month forbearance on mortgage payments.

"We are committed to helping our customers succeed financially through the ups and downs of life," said Paul Wible, Head of Bank of the West's National Finance Group. "We're there for our customers when they realize their dreams of buying homes and cars and RVs, and we stay by their side during the hard times -- whether they are fires, floods or furloughs."

The Bank has set up a toll-free number for customers to call to request assistance. Bank of the West mortgage customers and customers with consumer loans (including auto, RV and boat loans, credit cards and home equity loans and lines of credit) can call 800-653-0362.

About Bank of the West

Founded in 1874, $64 billion-asset Bank of the West (www.bankofthewest.com) offers a full range of personal, commercial, wealth management and international banking services. The bank operates more than 600 retail and commercial banking locations in 19 Western and Midwestern states. Bank of the West is a subsidiary of BNP Paribas, which has a presence in 80 countries with nearly 200,000 employees. Bank of the West is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

SOURCE Bank of the West

RELATED LINKShttp://www.bankofthewest.com