Low-interest federal disaster loans available

Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Colorado residents and business owners as a result of President Obama’s major disaster declaration, U. S. Small Business Administration Acting Administrator Jeanne Hulit announced.

The declaration covers Larimer County as a result of the severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides that began September 11.

“The U. S. Small Business Administration is strongly committed to providing Colorado with the most effective and customer-focused response possible and with access to federal disaster loans to help residents and businesses affected by the disaster,” said Hulit. “Getting our businesses and communities up and running after a disaster is our highest priority at SBA.”

Disaster loans 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.

Businesses of any size and private, nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to homeowners and business owners to help with the cost of making improvements that protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

Interest rates can be as low 1.937 percent for homeowners and renters, 4 percent for businesses, and 2.875 percent for private, non‑profit organizations, with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, victims must first call the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at 800-621-FEMA (3362). As soon as Federal-State Disaster Recovery Centers are opened throughout the affected area, SBA will provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants. Additional information and details on the location of disaster recovery centers is available by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955.