The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in West Virginia of the approaching deadline to apply for federal disaster loans. These loans aim to mitigate economic losses caused by the drought that began on August 13, 2024. The deadline for applications is April 21, 2025.
This disaster declaration includes Boone, Braxton, Cabell, Calhoun, Clay, Doddridge, Fayette, Gilmer, Jackson, Kanawha, Lewis, Lincoln, Mason, Nicholas, Putnam, Raleigh, Ritchie, Roane, Wirt and Wood counties in West Virginia. It also covers Gallia and Meigs counties in Ohio.
Through this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program offers assistance to small businesses and private nonprofits experiencing financial setbacks due to the drought. However, agricultural producers are not eligible unless they are small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs provide working capital for businesses affected by the disaster even if no physical damage occurred. These funds can be used for fixed debts and other expenses that remain unpaid due to the drought's impact.
Chris Stallings from the SBA highlighted the importance of these loans: “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster...These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”
Eligible applicants can receive up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs. Terms extend up to 30 years with deferred interest accrual and payments until one year after disbursement. Loan amounts and terms depend on each applicant’s financial condition.
For application details or further information on SBA disaster assistance services can be accessed online at sba.gov/disaster or through their 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 deadline for submitting economic injury applications remains April 21, 2025.