Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) took time today to remind local businesses of the pending deadline for loan applications for storm-damaged property. Businesses affected by the storm, that have not previously applied for relief through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), have until April 13 to register with FEMA and return their disaster loan applications to the SBA.

“Many in our community are still reeling from the impact of Superstorm Sandy,” said McDonough. “As we work to restore normalcy, it is crucial that businesses and individuals avail themselves of all resources possible. Reopening the doors to local businesses will revitalize our area and also put residents back to work and strengthen our communities. As we continue to approach the deadline, it is important for all affected to receive the aid to which they’re entitled.”

Individuals can register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or via smartphone or tablet at m.fema.gov. They may also call the FEMA helpline 800-621-3362 (Voice, 7-1-1/Relay) or (TTY) 800-462-7585. The helpline is available 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EDT, seven days a week. To apply for a low-interest SBA disaster loan, go to https://DisasterLoan.SBA.gov/ELA.

Through the Small Business Administration, businesses and private nonprofit organizations may be eligible to borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace storm-damaged property.

For assistance, call the SBA Disaster Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955

(TTY 800-877-8339) or send an e-mail to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.

For additional information on disaster recovery assistance, residents and businesses are encouraged to visit www.fema.gov/SandyNY, www.twitter.com/FEMASandy, www.facebook.com/FEMASandy and www.fema.gov/blog.