DISASTER LOANS AVAILABLE FOR AUSTIN–SURROUNDING COUNTIES
A program offering low-interest loan due to storms last month is available to affected residents in Washington and several area counties.
Severe storms struck parts of Texas May 21st-thru-23rd.
Most of the severe damage occurred in the Sealy area—including a tornado. However, the disaster declaration also includes counties bordering Austin County, including: Washington, Colorado, Fayette, Fort Bend, Waller and Wharton counties.
The U.S. Small Business Administration has opened a disaster loan outreach center in Sealy. The office, at 1630 Meyer St., is open weekdays from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. It will close at noon next Friday.
SBA representatives will be at the center to answer questions about the agency’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help complete applications. No appointment is necessary.
Officials say low-interest federal disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, most private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters whose property was damaged by the storms.
Businesses and private nonprofit organizations can borrow up to $2 million. Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners. Interest rates can be as low as 3.2 percent for businesses, 2.5 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 1.9 percent for homeowners and renters.
Applicants may apply online at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.