How to apply for a small business disaster loan

Find out what expenses an SBA disaster loan can pay 

The Small Business Administration (SBA) extends low interest loans after a disaster. The loans can help businesses of all sizes, non-profit 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 at DisasterAssistance.gov. Check to confirm that you are eligible, then apply with FEMA online.

After receiving a FEMA registration number, you can then 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 these documents 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)