California businesses, nonprofits and residents have until April 6 to apply for low-interest federal disaster loans stemming from severe storms that struck Dec. 16-26, 2025, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced Thursday.
The disaster declaration covers 13 California counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino, as well as La Paz and Mohave counties in Arizona and Clark County in Nevada.
Businesses and private nonprofits may apply for loans up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged real estate, equipment, inventory and other assets. Homeowners may borrow up to $500,000 to repair or replace their primary residence, while renters and homeowners may apply for up to $100,000 for personal property losses.
Applicants may also qualify for a loan increase of up to 20% of their verified physical damage for mitigation improvements, such as wind-resistant upgrades and storm shelters.
Interest rates start at 4% for businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits and 2.875% for homeowners and renters, with repayment terms up to 30 years. Payments and interest accrual are deferred for 12 months from the date of first disbursement.
Economic Injury Disaster Loans are also available for businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and private nonprofits that suffered financial losses tied to the storms. Agricultural producers, farmers and ranchers — except aquaculture enterprises — are not eligible.
Applications are available at sba.gov/disaster. Those who miss the April 6 deadline have a 60-day grace period to apply. For assistance, call (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
— Edited by SMDP Staff