During a disaster like Hurricane Harvey and its massive flooding, the U.S. Small Business Administration becomes the hub agency for services targeting small business; even services beyond its primary role in lending. Because of its experience with loans and working with banks, it also takes on certain responsibilities beyond those related to small businesses. Here is a list related to Harvey disaster recovery (or any major declared disaster) where you can find links to such services.
First look over the information on this page to learn more about the various loans, grants and services that may be available to your business. Then take these following steps.
- When you’re ready to think about next steps, start by contacting the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for recovery assistance in the form of grants. Register for FEMA assistance at www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
- For more information about SBA Disaster Loans, visit disasterloan.sba.gov. The SBA’s Customer Service Center is also available to provide assistance at 1-800-659-2955 or by e-mail at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov(link sends e-mail).`
Note: The SBA is providing an automatic 12-month deferment of principal and interest payments for SBA-serviced business and disaster loans that were in “regular servicing” status on August 25, 2017, in those primary counties designated as Federal disaster areas. (Read more…
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Disaster recovery-assistance grants and SBA disaster loans
The SBA offers low-interest, long-term disaster loans to the following:
- Small businesses of all sizes
- Private non-profit organizations
- Homeowners, and renters to repair or replace uninsured/underinsured disaster damaged property
- Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.
The SBA will be alongside FEMA at Disaster and Business Recovery Centers, providing assistance to disaster survivors. At the centers, disaster survivors will be able to apply in person and get counseling on the next steps toward recovery.
SBA Disaster Loan Program
How to Apply for an SBA Disaster loan
Apply online, in-person at a disaster center, or by mail. A loan officer will determine your eligibility during processing, after reviewing any insurance or other recoveries. SBA can make a loan while your insurance recovery is pending.
- As a business of any size, you may borrow up to $2 million for physical damage.
- As a small business, small agricultural cooperative, small business engaged in aquaculture, or private non-profit organization you may borrow up to $2 million for Economic Injury.
- As a small business, you may apply for a maximum business loan (physical and/or economic injury) of $2 million.
- As a homeowner you may borrow up to $200,000 to repair/replace your disaster damaged primary residence.
- As a homeowner or renter, you may borrow up to $40,000 to repair/replace damaged personal property.
For more information about SBA Disaster Loans, visit disasterloan.sba.gov. The SBA’s Customer Service Center is also available to provide assistance at 1-800-659-2955 or by e-mail at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov(link sends e-mail).
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