San Rafael, CA – Did recent winter storms create hardships for your small business or at home? You might be eligible for financial help.
A firefighter inspects storm damage in Stinson Beach.The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently added Marin County to its list of disaster-stricken counties eligible to apply for personal and business loans. Some Marin County residents and businesses may now qualify for aid if the storms from December 27, 2022, through January 31, 2023, resulted in financial losses.
Homeowners can get up to $200,000, and renters can get up to $40,000 if they were affected by flooding, landslides, mudslides, or other aspects of the storms. The aid can be used for individuals and households to repair or replace damaged primary residences. The deadline to file for property damage is May 8.
Businesses can get up to $2 million if they were affected by the winter storms. The loans are meant for “mom and pop” small businesses, small agricultural and aquaculture cooperatives, and nonprofits of any size. Businesses have until December 7 to apply for an economic injury loan. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage. The purpose is to help business owners meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could have been met had the disaster not happened.
The SBA is working with the federal government to offer low-interest loans. SBA staff will assist residents, businesses and qualified nonprofits to answer questions about the loan program and help with the application process. The center’s location will be announced within a few days.
Applicants can receive additional disaster assistance information, download an application or apply online. Applicants may also email or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955.
Property owners in Marin County may also be entitled to property tax relief as a result of the winter storms. The most recent County-proclaimed local disasters were for COVID-19 and the drought; both those have expired.