Thursday, October 9, 2025

Businesses, Nonprofits Face Final Hours to Secure Federal Disaster Loans

Lake Avenue in Altadena, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. [Eddie Rivera / Pasadena Now]

Eaton Fire victims can access up to $2 million with deferred payments

Businesses and nonprofits affected by the Eaton Fire have until tonight (Wednesday) to apply for federal disaster loans.

Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger issued an urgent appeal for eligible organizations to submit applications.

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program offers financial assistance to businesses, private nonprofits, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and faith-based organizations.

Eligible organizations can receive up to $2 million at low interest rates.

Interest rates are as low as 3.625% for nonprofits and 4% for businesses. Repayment terms extend up to 30 years.

Borrowers face no payments for the first 12 months. Interest does not accrue during this initial period.

“Today is the final day to apply for critical federal assistance,” Barger said. The loans “can help our local businesses and nonprofits recover from the devastating Eaton Fire.”

Organizations experiencing economic losses directly related to the wildfires qualify for assistance. Physical damage is not required.

“These low-interest loans are a vital resource for organizations facing economic hardship,” Barger said.

Applications can be submitted online through the SBA website, sba.gov, or by calling SBA Customer Service at (800) 659-2955. Organizations may also email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

In-person applications are available at the Altadena Community Center, located at 730 East Altadena Drive, Altadena.

“Time is of the essence,” Barger emphasized. “Do not miss this opportunity to secure the financial support needed for recovery.”