(WLUK) — Residents and businesses affected by the severe storms that swept through Wisconsin from Aug. 9-12, causing tens of millions of dollars in damage, are encouraged to apply for federal disaster assistance.

In a news release Tuesday, Gov. Tony Evers shared information about loans available through the U.S. Small Business Administration.

“The disastrous weather events Wisconsinites faced last month displaced kids and families and damaged homes, businesses, community centers, and more,” said Evers in a news release. “Since the storms occurred and we saw the devastating impacts left in their wake, we want to make sure folks know what federal resources, support, and assistance is available to help our communities respond, repair, and rebuild.”

I’m encouraging Wisconsinites and businesses who are eligible to make sure they apply for federal assistance, including federal disaster loans available through the Small Business Administration.

Evers says residents and businesses in Milwaukee, Washington and Waukesha counties may be eligible for physical damage and economic injury assistance through SBA. Businesses in Dodge, Fond du Lac, Jefferson, Ozaukee, Racine, Sheboygan and Walworth counties may be eligible for economic injury assistance.

Eligible applicants may apply for the following SBA disaster loans:

Home disaster loans: For homeowners and renters to repair or replace damaged real estate and personal property.Business physical disaster loans: For businesses and private nonprofit organizations to repair or replace disaster-damaged property, including buildings, equipment and inventory.Economic injury disaster loans (EIDL): Working capital loans for small businesses and nonprofits unable to meet financial obligations due to the disaster.

The deadline for applications for home and business physical disaster loans is Nov. 10. The deadline for economic injury disaster loans is June 11, 2026. However, residents and business owners are urged to apply as soon as possible to begin the recovery process.

Applications for the loans can be submitted online. or assistance, contact the SBA Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or dial 7-1-1 for relay services.

Loan applicants may also be eligible for additional funds to cover mitigation improvements that protect property against future damage. SBA also offers refinancing options for qualified applicants and support for voluntary or involuntary relocation.

Applicants should note that these disaster loan offerings through the SBA are separate from Individual Assistance programs offered through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Last week, Wisconsin secured approval of a presidential disaster declaration that unlocked nearly $30 million to help families and businesses rebuild and recover.