09/12/2008
After Hurricane Ike wreaked havoc across Texas and the Gulf Coast this weekend and caused widespread flooding in the Midwest, NFIB is concerned for the safety and well-being of our members in the affected areas.
If you or someone you know is affected by Hurricane Ike, the following information may be helpful to protect your family and business before, during and after a hurricane:
Before
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Web site is tracking Hurricane Ike.
Protect Your Property or Business from Disaster: This is a FEMA Web site dedicated to helping business owners prepare and protect their property from high winds and flooding.
Disaster Planning: Anticipating the Unanticipated: This article on NFIB.com provides a useful checklist for assessing your business' disaster preparedness.
During
FEMA provides helpful tips for a hurricane.
After
What individuals need to know to apply for assistance from FEMA.
Information about Small Business Administration Disaster Loans.
For more information on SBA disaster loan application process, contact the Disaster Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955, or by email at disastercustomerservices@sba.gov
Representatives at the SBA Customer Service Center are available to answer questions from those who may be in the path of the storm and would like to discuss the possible assistance SBA can provide.
Additionally SBA has just implemented an online Electronic Loan Application which can speed loan approval and disbursement. More information is available at www.sba.gov. The CSC phone number is 1-800-659-2955 or they can be contacted at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Phone lines are open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. (EDT), Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (EDT), Saturday and Sunday.
Information on applying for public assistance for housing or other needs.
Other federal agencies that may be helpful in dealing with hurricane-related issues:
IRS
IRS disaster hotline: 1-866-562-5227
IRS disaster assistance Web site
