Georgia Residents Urged to Utilize SBA Disaster Loan Opportunities

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Residents of Georgia are encouraged to apply for SBA disaster loans to help repair storm-damaged properties.

News Summary

Georgia residents affected by recent storms are encouraged to apply for additional funds from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to protect their homes and businesses. Eligible applicants can request up to 20% more in disaster loans to help strengthen their properties against future storms. A portable loan outreach center has been established in Valdosta to assist applicants, and the deadline for physical property applications is November 29, 2024. Those in affected counties should not miss this chance to secure vital financial support.

Exciting Opportunity for Georgia Residents Affected by Storms!

Residents in Georgia who received disaster loans are being encouraged to take advantage of a fantastic opportunity provided by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If you’re among those who had to seek help following a disaster, now is the time to consider applying for some extra funds to prepare for future storms.

Get Up to 20% More Funds to Protect Your Home

Eligible recipients can request an increase of up to 20% of their verified physical damages. That’s right—if your home or business suffered damage, you might be able to receive additional money to help strengthen it against the next storm. The good news is you have up to two years from your loan approval date to make this request. So, don’t delay!

What Damages Can You Address?

So, you might be wondering what kinds of improvements you can make with this additional funding. Well, the SBA has outlined a few great ways you can use the money to make your property safe and secure:

Regrading landscaping for better drainage: This can help prevent flooding in heavy rains.
Installing French drains or sump pumps: These are critical for managing excess water.
Strengthening structures against high wind damage: Make your home more resilient and stand strong against fierce winds.

Expert Advice for Storm Preparedness

To make the most of this program, it’s a good idea to collaborate with contractors and mitigation professionals. They can assist you in choosing the best options for enhancing your storm readiness. If you need some ideas, check out sba.gov/mitigation for more information on various mitigation options that you can explore.

Expanded Disaster Declaration for Hurricane Helene

In more good news, the SBA has recently added four new primary counties and six adjacent counties to the disaster declaration for Hurricane Helene. This means even more businesses and residents are now eligible to apply for the SBA’s low-interest disaster loan program. It’s an excellent chance for those who may have initially missed their opportunity due to this expanded declaration!

Visit the Portable Loan Outreach Center

For those needing assistance, a Portable Loan Outreach Center has opened in Valdosta to help disaster survivors navigate through the application process. Whether you’re looking to apply for a loan or want to learn more, they are there to help!

Important Dates and Details to Remember

Just a heads-up—SBA Centers will be closing temporarily on Columbus Day (October 14) but will be back in full swing on October 15. You’ll find Customer Service Representatives at every FEMA Disaster Recovery Center ready to help with the SBA disaster loan application process. You can walk in, but if you prefer, appointments can also be scheduled in advance for your convenience.

Eligible Counties and Application Deadlines

Georgia residents in counties like Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, and Ben Hill can apply for physical and economic injury disaster loans. Adjacent counties eligible for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) also include Baldwin, Bleckley, Brantley, and several others.

Do keep in mind that it’s possible to apply for both FEMA grants and SBA loans at the same time! The deadline for physical property damage applications is coming up on November 29, 2024, while economic injury applications are due by June 30, 2025. This extension was made due to delays caused by a federal disaster funding lapse, so don’t miss out!

How to Apply

If you’re affected and ready to take action, you can apply for loans online or visit designated assistance centers in your area. Remember that loan amounts and terms are decided based on your financial need and circumstances.

Need More Help?

If you have questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the SBA Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 1-800-659-2955 or shooting them an email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Your future could be brighter with a little help, so take advantage of these resources!