Small-business owners who took out disaster loans in response to Hurricane Fiona and Ivan will not have to make any payments for a year.
The new policy includes all new disaster loans made through Sept. 30, 2023, according to an announcement by the SBA. The extended deferment is automatic and loan borrowers do not need to take any additional action. There is also no prepayment penalty and borrowers can begin making payments during the deferment period if they choose, the SBA said.
The SBA has already approved about $1.2 billion for residents and business owners impacted by Hurricanes Fiona and Ian.The disaster loan relief change is the latest in a series of moves the agency has made to tweak its programs and policies in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.to bolster defense industry supply chain and increase innovation through its small-business programs.