Disaster Loans For July 4th Storms Available In These NJ Counties

Small businesses and nonprofits in two North Jersey counties may be eligible for disaster loans following the devastating storms on July 4.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced it would provide low-interest disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Warren and Sussex counties to "offset economic losses caused by severe storms occurring July 4."

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The storms, other than canceling 250th Independence Day festivities, brought with them heavy rain, hail, flooding, and up to 70 mph winds, damaging businesses, homes, cars, and infrastructure.

Specifically, the SBA's Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available to assist small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and private nonprofit organizations (including faith-based groups), with financial losses directly related to the storms.

The loans are not only for physical damage, but can be used to pay debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills which could not be paid due to the disaster, according to the SBA.

"SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery," said Chris Stallings, Associate Administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at SBA. "These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster."

The loans can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as four percent for small businesses and 3.625 percent for nonprofits, with terms of up to 30 years.

Additionally, interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until a year from the date of the first loan payment. The SBA will determine eligibility and set loan terms based on each applicant's financial condition.

The SBA says it can not provide loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, with the exception of small aquaculture farms.

Click here to apply online. The deadline to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan for the July 4, 2026 storms is April 30, 2027.