The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced an extension for the physical damage loan application deadline for areas impacted by the 2024 federal funding lapse. The new deadline is set for April 27, 2025.
This disaster declaration affects Mercer County and adjacent counties including McDowell, Monroe, Raleigh, Summers, and Wyoming in West Virginia, as well as Bland, Giles, and Tazewell in Virginia.
Businesses and nonprofits can apply for loans up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged real estate and other assets. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $100,000 for personal property repairs and homeowners can access up to $500,000 for primary residence repairs.
Applicants might also qualify for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages verified by the SBA. This increase is intended for mitigation purposes such as strengthening structures against high winds or installing storm shelters.
"One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage," stated Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. He encourages utilizing these loans to enhance storm readiness with professional help.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.25% for private non-profit organizations (PNPs), and 2.813% for homeowners and renters with terms extending up to 30 years. Interest accrual and payments are deferred until a year after the first loan disbursement. Loan amounts are determined based on each applicant's financial situation.
Applications can be submitted online at SBA.gov/disaster or through contact with SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or via email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Telecommunications relay services are available by dialing 7-1-1.
The filing deadline remains April 27, 2025.