Disaster relief workers are in Benton, Boone, Carroll, Clay, Faulkner, Fulton, Jackson, Lawrence, Pulaski, Randolph, Saline, Washington and Yell counties. Some workers go door-to-door and will be wearing FEMA shirts. Be sure to also ask for their identification card.
Federal Disaster Loans to assist homeowners, renters and businesses that incurred damage due to severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding between April 26 and May 19, 2017 are now available. If you are a homeowner or renter, the Federal Emergency Management Agency may refer you to the Small Business Administration. SBA loans are the primary source of money to pay for repair or replacement costs not fully covered by insurance or other compensation.
The SBA offers low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private, non-profits.
Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace their primary residence.
Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $40,000 to replace personal property.
Businesses may borrow up to $2 million for any combination of property damage or economic injury.
SBA offers low-interest working capital loans to small businesses and most private, noon-profit organizations of all sizes having difficulty meeting obligations as a result of the disaster.
What You Need To Know
Begin by registering with FEMA at (800) 621-3362.
Homeowners and renters should submit an SBA loan application, even if they are not sure if they will need or want a loan. If the SBA cannot approve your application, in most cases they refer you to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for possible additional assistance.
3 Ways to apply to SBA
Online https://disasterloan.sba.gov.ela
Apply in person at a Disaster Recovery Center (800) 659-2955
Complete a paper application and mail to SBA, 14925 Kingsport Rd., Ft. Worth, TX 76155-2243
Interest rates can be as low as 3.125 percent for businesses, 2.5 percent for private nonprofits, or 1.938 percent for homeowners or renters with terms up to 30 years.