Government

Federal Loans Available to Help Small Businesses Affected by Civil Unrest

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Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to help San Diego County small businesses affected by the civil unrest that began May 26, 2020 and do not have the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship.

The Small Business Administration Economic Disaster Loans can be up to $2 million and help meet financial obligations and operating expenses, such as payroll or fixed debts, that could have been met had the civil unrest not occurred. The loans are not intended to cover losses from property damage, nor is it general COVID-19 related assistance.

“These loans can be a critical first step for affected businesses, and we encourage anyone eligible to apply,” said Jeff Toney, director of the San Diego County Office of Emergency Services.

The deadline to apply for the loans is April 7, 2021. Completed applications can be mailed to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

The disaster loans will have an interest rate of 3% for small businesses and 2.75% for private nonprofit organizations with terms up to 30 years.

Businesses may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/. Applicants can also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information.

Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call (800)877-8339.

Due to COVID-19, there will only be a Virtual Business Recovery Center available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays at FOCWAssistance@sba.gov and (916) 735-1500. The SBA will be available to answer questions, explain the application process and help individuals complete their electronic loan application.

Yvette Urrea Moe is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office. Contact