On Thursday, March 12th, President Trump and the Small Business Administration announced that disaster loans would be available for businesses being affected by the coronavirus pandemic. These loans provide critical and timely support to America’s small businesses to help them bridge this moment of decreased revenue.

“Our Agency will work directly with state Governors to provide targeted, low-interest disaster recovery loans to small businesses that have been severely impacted by the situation…The SBA will continue to provide every small business with the most effective and customer-focused response possible during these times of uncertainty.”

—Jovita Carranza, SBA Administrator

As COVID-19 continues to spread, the repercussions on businesses throughout the country are abounding. Some businesses find themselves faced with expansive layoffs or even closing their doors permanently. Quarantine and social distancing protocols are leaving food, entertainment, and other service industries without patrons and income. An SBA disaster loan is designed to help these businesses weather the storm and survive until the pandemic clears.

What is an SBA disaster loan?

A disaster loan from the Small Business Administration is a low-interest loan offered at a point of extreme need with the aim of helping small businesses stay open and retain their property and other assets.

SBA disaster loans are for small businesses, non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters who may be experiencing financial hardship due to an acute circumstance beyond their control—usually a catastrophe or disaster. These loans may help cover a gap in insurance coverage, or simply provide a sustaining financial bridge until insurance claims can be processed and funds dispersed. In cases like the current environment, where the disaster may not be covered by insurance, the SBA specifically administers loans through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program.

The Economic Injury Disaster Loan program

The Economic Injury Disaster Loan program (EIDL) cover provides funding in the form of loans up to $2 million depending on the needs of the business. Repayment terms are usually crafted to meet the needs and ability of the business as well. Rather than covering the physical injuries caused by a disaster, EIDL covers the economic losses. For example, if your business sustained significant damage during a disaster (flood, tornado, etc.), then the loan may cover repairs, losses, as well as lack of income during the disaster and rebuilding period. On the other hand, if your business wasn’t physically damaged by the disaster, but was closed or inaccessible (as is the case with current coronavirus quarantines), the loan may cover the costs of business income you lost due to the disaster conditions. State Governors can make Presidential or Agency requests that an area be considered to be affected by disaster. Secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce, or even military entities can also declare disasters based on circumstances that are damaging to the public. For more information about how disasters are classified and declared turn to FEMA.

Coronavirus introduces a need for disaster loans

As defined by FEMA, a “disease or pandemic” qualifies as the kind of disaster for which small businesses may appeal to federal and state governments for assistance. The coronavirus has taken a particular toll on American businesses, especially small franchises. Local businessesin particular are reporting issues with supply and nosediving sales, according to CNBC. Some predictions suggest 3.5 million jobs could be lost, reaching 6% unemployment. In response to these economic hardships caused by the coronavirus, many states have declared disaster in order to provide financial assistance to small businesses. According to Forbes, the demand side of the economy is primarily taking the hit from COVID-19—and the looming economic uncertainty isn’t helping.

What are the requirements for an SBA disaster loan?

The Small Business Administration (SBA) was created to support and entice small businesses in the United States. Part of their function is to provide financial support in response to disasters. While the SBA aims to be generous and helpful with loan assistance, in the case of disasters like the coronavirus pandemic there are strict requirements for qualifying businesses (in order to allow the SBA to help as many companies as possible).

SBA disaster loan requirements

There are four main considerations for an SBA disaster loan: location, credit score, repayment ability, and available collateral.

Location

To qualify for an SBA disaster loan you must operate a business located within a declared disaster zone. This might include a city, county, state, or country depending on the nature of the disaster. Check the SBA website for a current list of areas that have been officially declared disaster zones to determine if you fall in a qualified area.

Credit requirements

In order to qualify for an SBA disaster loan, the Small Business Administration will perform a routine credit check. As with any loan, the lender is assuming a risk and credit checks help lenders to be informed and to mitigate those risks. If your small business credit score isn’t stellar, the SBA will still consider other factors, such as recent income and your history of rent, utilities, insurance, and other payments. (Here are some current recommendations for best business loans for bad credit).

Repayment

As with any loan, the lender needs to consider your ability to pay back the loan in full. This will likely be addressed on a case-by-case basis for businesses affected by coronavirus. Some businesses will rebound quickly and be able to repay the loan easily, while others may need more money and more time to adapt to the economic climate created by the pandemic.

Collateral

If you are in need of an SBA disaster loan larger than $20,000-25,000, it is likely that the lender will insist on some form of collateral to complete the loan process. Collateral is any property or asset of value that a lender can use to balance the weight of a loan if there is substantial risk. For example, the SBA may consider your business property as collateral for a large loan in the event you were unable to meet the terms of the loan.

Keep in mind—these loans are designed to be as accessible as possible, so don’t be afraid to apply and work with the SBA, even if you have bad credit or lack of collateral.

How do I get an SBA disaster loan?

The fastest way to apply for an SBA disaster loan is through their online portal. You will be required to complete the disaster loan application as well as submit IRS Form 4506-T (which gives permission for the IRS to release your tax return to the SBA). However, you ought to consider all of your sources before applying to the SBA, as disaster loans may only apply to businesses without any other options.

SBA disaster loan application process

If you have sustained economic damage and need access to capital due to the coronavirus, the SBA describes their three step process:

1. Apply online, in-person, or by mail.
2. Verify property and loan eligibility.
3. Receive disbursement of funds. 

While this three step process sounds straightforward, there are various other steps you may need to take to be prepared for the loan review, including verifying eligible disaster zones, estimating your losses and financial need, and compiling your business story and community impact. Be prepared with the necessary documentation:

• SBA Form 5 (Business Loan Application)
• IRS Form 4506-T (IRS Release)
• Most recent Federal income tax returns
• SBA Form 413 (Personal Financial Statement)
• Schedule of Liabilities (may use SBA Form 2202)
• Additional documentation may be requested, such as income statements, deed/lease information, Employee Identification Number (EIN), monthly sales, etc.

Disaster loans are expedited, so you can expect your disaster loan to start incremental payments in 1-3 weeks. You will also be assigned a loan officer who will work with you through the duration of your loan. Online Portal Note: The SBA portal has experienced high traffic volume and slow site responses. You may call for over-the-phone assistance at any time: 1-800-659-2955.  Non-peak hours are 7:00pm to 7:00am EDT.

SBA disaster loan terms and rates

Because the coronavirus pandemic is not considered a physical disaster (such as a tornado or hurricane), it falls under the umbrella of Economic Injury Disaster Loans (rather than traditional SBA disaster loans). Small businesses with credit available elsewhere may not qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans under the coronavirus disaster.  You will register on Pay.gov (under 1201 Borrower Payments) in order to schedule your repayment options. Typically, disaster survivors are required to repay SBA disaster loans in full. The terms of the loan and established within your ability to repay.

*Terms are determined on a case-by-case basis, based upon each borrower’s ability to repay

How can I use an SBA disaster loan for COVID-19?

If you’re approved for an SBA disaster loan due to economic losses caused by coronavirus, you will begin receiving your funds fairly quickly. SBA disaster loans may be used to cover:

• Fixed debts
• Employees paychecks
• Bills
• Outstanding invoices
• Business adaptations (delivery, online/mobile options, etc.)

An SBA disaster loan for coronavirus should be used to cover costs and losses that would not have occurred except for the complications, quarantines, social distancing, and other measures made necessary by COVID-19.

Other emergency loan options

Generally, SBA disaster loans will offer you the best rates, terms, and affordable financing. But if you’re looking to get a small business loan for the coronavirus disaster you’ll need to exhaust all other emergency loan options before being approved for an SBA disaster loan. The good news is that your small business can receive a coronavirus emergency loan through an alternative lender that will often be easier and faster than the process for an SBA disaster loan. In addition to a traditional installment loan, you may consider a one-time line of credit to help cover payroll or business adjustments (e.g. a delivery vehicle) while you wait for coronavirus regulations to expire, or possibly a short term business loan just to get through a couple of weeks.

Pros & Cons of alternative emergency loans

Pros	Cons
Easier application process	May require higher credit score or specified revenue
Faster approval	Shorter term lengths
Faster disbursement	Increased repayment frequency
Some may have lower APR	Additional fees

Most small businesses have a relationship with a bank or credit union already, so reaching out to your financial institution to discuss options is a smart first step if you are in need of a small business loan to cope with the effects of coronavirus. Other options for emergency small business loans include popular lenders like BlueVine, Lendio, and Fundera. Be sure to carefully read all fine print and weigh multiple options before applying for an emergency small business loan to help you survive the coronavirus economic disaster.

Don’t hesitate to apply

The coronavirus may have strapped us all with unintended consequences, but that doesn’t mean our businesses need to wither under the pandemic. Research your options and don’t hesitate to apply for an SBA disaster loan to help your small business survive the economic impact of COVID-19 and come out on the other side thriving.