SBA launches electronic disaster loan application

August 13, 2008 — Disaster victims may now go online to file an application for recovery assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, Jovita Carranza, acting administrator, announced today.

The electronic loan application can be accessed via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

Homeowners and renters who suffer damages to their homes and personal property following a declared disaster may apply for disaster loan assistance online. Businesses and non-profit organizations can go online to apply for assistance to cover losses to real estate and property, as well as economic injury.

“This online application provides a convenient alternative for disaster victims as they take their first steps toward rebuilding after a disaster,” Carranza said.

The electronic loan application contains a feature that automatically checks errors, and prompts applicants when additional information is needed, guaranteeing a quicker loan-processing/decision time frame. On-screen help includes a glossary to explain terms that may be unfamiliar to the applicant. 

Paper disaster loan applications will still be mailed to disaster victims, and the package will include directions to the electronic loan application Web site. Questions about the electronic loan applications can be directed to SBA’s Disaster Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955, or by sending an e-mail to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.  

Source: Small Business Administration, www.sba.gov