How to apply for an SBA disaster loan
If your business or home suffered damage and is in a presidentially declared disaster area, you may qualify for financial help. Find out how to apply for a small business disaster loan.
Find out what expenses an SBA disaster loan can pay
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest loans after a disaster. The loans can help businesses of all sizes, nonprofit organizations, and individual households. The loans can pay for:
- Repair or replacement of physical damages
- Expenses that your business’ or homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover
- Personal expenses
Learn about the types of disaster relief loans
SBA disaster loans cover different types of losses after a disaster. Learn more about each type of loan and if you are eligible:
- Business Physical Disaster Loan - provides for the repair or replacement of buildings, machinery, fixtures, and inventory
- Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) - assists with operational costs whether or not a disaster caused physical damage to a business
- Home and personal property loans - helps homeowners and renters replace or repair damaged homes, cars, appliances, furniture, and clothing
- Military Reservists Economic Injury Loans - helps businesses cover operational expenses if an essential employee is called to duty as a military reservist
How to apply for an SBA disaster loan
Before applying for an SBA disaster loan, you must register with FEMA:
- By calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
After you receive a FEMA registration number, you can apply for an SBA disaster loan in one of three ways:
- Apply for an SBA disaster loan online.
- Apply in person at a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC).
- Apply by mail. Download the paper forms that you will need to complete.
You can also find a Disaster Recovery Center or request paper forms by calling the SBA contact center at 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 711).
Documents required to apply for an SBA disaster loan
You will need documentation of the following when you apply for an SBA loan:
- Contact information for all applicants
- Social Security numbers for all applicants
- FEMA registration number
- Deed or lease information
- Insurance information
- Financial information
- Employer Identification Number (EIN)
