U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

Why did I receive a disaster loan application from SBA after applying with FEMA?
The SBA is the federal government?s primary source of money for the long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged private property. SBA helps homeowners and renters, businesses of all sizes, and private, nonprofit organizations fund repairs or rebuilding efforts, and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged property. These disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other recoveries and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations.

How can I get help filling out the application for an SBA disaster loan?
SBA customer service representatives are on hand at the Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) and SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) to issue loan applications, answer questions about SBA?s disaster loan program, explain the application process and provide one-on-one assistance in completing their loan application.

Individuals or business owners may also obtain information by calling toll-free 1-800-659-2955. Hearing impaired individuals may call toll-free 1-800-877-8339. Or visit SBA's website at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance

The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is July 23, 2007. The EIDL deadline is February 22, 2008.

If I have already received a check from FEMA, but it was not enough to pay for all the work needed to fix the disaster damages, can I get more help?
SBA disaster loans cover uninsured and uncompensated losses and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations, including FEMA. FEMA funds are not intended to pay for all the costs of repairing your damaged home, or for replacing your personal property. SBA disaster loans are available to cover the amount of your repair costs which are not fully compensated. You should apply to SBA for any additional amount needed to complete your recovery.

I think I can pay for the repairs on my own, should I apply for a disaster loan?
Rebuilding your home after a declared disaster could be easier with a long-term, low-interest loan from the SBA. If your home is damaged, you may be eligible for a loan from SBA. SBA disaster loans of up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property. These disaster loans cover uninsured and uncompensated losses and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations.

What happens if I cannot afford a loan to repair damaged property?
If SBA is unable to assist a disaster victim with all of their disaster losses, SBA may refer the applicant to other assistance programs, such as FEMA's Other Needs Assistance program. However, SBA cannot refer an individual to any other program without first making a decision on the SBA application.

For More Information Contact:
SBA Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center
(800) 659-2955
www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance