Special to the
Opelika Observer
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has transitioned from a business recovery center to an SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center March 1 in Lee County to serve businesses and residents affected by the severe storms and tornadoes that hit the area on March 3.
SBA representatives can provide information about disaster loans, answer questions and assist in completing the SBA application. The center is located as indicated below and will operate until further notice:
Southern Union State Community College
Technical Building 1, 1st Floor, Classroom 5
301 Lake Condy Road
Opelika, Alabama 36801
Hours: weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closed: Saturdays and Sundays
Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoan.sba.gov.
To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, applicants should register online at
DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA mobile app. If online or mobile access is unavailable, applicants should call the FEMA toll-free helpline at 800-621-3362. Those who use 711-Relay or video relay services should call 800-621-3362.
Additional details on the locations of Disaster Recovery Centers and the loan application process can be obtained by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an e-mail to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is May 6. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Dec. 5.