Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey. State House News Service photo / file

Attorney General Maura Healey’s office has sent lenders to a number of the largest banks operating in Massachusetts about how they handled loans made under the Paycheck Protection Program.

Bank of America, Santander, TD Bank, and Wells Fargo received letters this week, Healey’s office confirmed, seeking more information about how the banks handled PPP loan applications.

The Boston Globe first reported the existence of the letters.

“We understand that banks and other financial institutions were given very little time or guidance from the Small Business Administration to implement these loans under the PPP, and we look forward to working with them in order to ensure a more equitable process,” Healey’s office said in a statement. “Our office will continue to look for ways to make sure our small businesses are protected and can survive these unprecedented times.”

A copy of one of the letters shared with Banker & Tradesman sought answers on how and when the banks solicited, accepted and processed loan applications, including via third-party fintech contractors. The letters also sought data on how many PPP loans were extended and funded, along with any demographic data the banks collected about the borrowers and their firms. Lastly, the letter asked about the banks’ interactions with the Small Business Administration, including any technical difficulties in submitting applications.

The letter cited concerns that some lenders had privileged larger borrowers with whom they had preexisting relationships, or asked for additional information beyond what the SBA required. The letters come amid class action lawsuits against BofA, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo and US Bank based on similar allegations.

The letter also raised concerns some banks may have used the PPP program to selectively boost borrowers with prior loans that might have been in danger of default due to the coronavirus crisis.