Larsen: Federal Disaster Relief Available for Small Businesses Suffering from COVID-19 Impact

March 20, 2020 1:30 am
Rick Larsen teaser
Rick Larsen teaser

Submitted by Joseph Tutino

The U.S. Small Business Administration announced on March 17 that it is offering low-interest federal disaster loans to Washington state’s small businesses suffering economic injury as a result of COVID-19. SBA assistance is available to small businesses in 32 counties in Washington, including Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, Island and San Juan counties in the Second Congressional District.

“The COVID-19 outbreak has had a significant impact on small businesses throughout the Pacific Northwest,” said Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02). “These low-interest federal loans will help small businesses get back on their feet and provide the stable jobs and stable communities which drive the regional economy. I will continue to be a strong advocate for COVID-19 relief for small businesses, workers and the people of the Second District.”

Small business applicants may apply for federal disaster loans online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call 1-800-877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76155. The deadline to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan is December 16, 2020.

Larsen has been a strong advocate for ensuring state and local communities have the federal resources needed to combat and mitigate the effects of COVID-19. Earlier this month, Larsen voted for an $8.3 billion emergency supplemental funding bill to help state and local agencies better address the outbreak. The legislation defines COVID-19 as a disaster eligible for SBA disaster relief loans which enables businesses to access to $7 billion in low-interest loans. Last week, Larsen voted for bipartisan legislation to boost the federal government’s response to COVID-19 and deliver relief for families in Washington state and across the country suffering disruption from the virus’ outbreak.

For more information about available SBA resources and services, please visit SBA.gov/coronavirus.