The extension of the deadline for applying to the U.S. Small Business Administration's (SBA) disaster loans offers a crucial lifeline to those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which wrought havoc from September 23 through November 2. According to a release from the Charlotte County website, Florida businesses and residents now have until January 7, 2025 to submit applications for federal aid to cover physical damages incurred during the disastrous storms.
For those seeking to navigate the aftermath of these events, the SBA has streamlined the process with an online portal, lending.sba.gov, where applications can be submitted and information on the loans can be found, and in case you need additional support or assistance their Customer Service Center can be reached at 1-800-659-2955 or via email at [email protected]; meanwhile, those with hearing or speech impairments are encouraged to use telecommunications relay services by dialing 7-1-1.
Furthermore, disaster assistance goes beyond the SBA loans, hence applicants are prompted to register at DisasterAssistance.gov or the FEMA mobile app to be considered for all available forms of aid. When online or mobile options are not accessible, the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 stands ready to assist, and similarly, users of 711-Relay or Video Relay Services are directed to the same number for support.
Local resources also remain at the ready, such as Charlotte County's Emergency Operations Center, available at 941-833-4000 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and online resources can be found at www.CharlotteCountyFL.gov/storm, these are available to provide recovery information and answer questions regarding the community's path towards rebuilding and resilience after the devastation left by the hurricanes.
