Texas seeks SBA disaster declaration to provide low interest loans for storm damaged homes and businesses

Austin, Texas – In response to devastating storms that recently swept through South Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has officially requested a disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If granted, the declaration would unlock low-interest federal disaster loans for residents and business owners in Jim Wells County and surrounding areas.

“I requested a disaster declaration for Texans in Jim Wells County whose homes or businesses were damaged by recent severe storms,” said Governor Abbott. “Approval of this declaration will provide access to low-interest loans to help Texans rebuild their communities. As Jim Wells County and surrounding areas begin to recover, I urge Texans to report any damage to their homes or businesses through the iSTAT damage surveys.”

The request comes after a thorough damage assessment conducted by local, state, and federal officials. Their findings confirmed that Jim Wells County meets the required federal thresholds for receiving SBA assistance. The application was further supported by information collected from Texans through the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT)—a self-reporting platform used to document storm-related losses.

If approved by the SBA, the disaster declaration will make Texans affected by tornadoes, thunderstorms, and straight-line winds eligible for low-interest disaster recovery loans. These loans are designed to help residents repair or replace damaged property, and allow businesses to recover and reopen after suffering losses.

Governor Abbott also emphasized that his administration has already been working to support South Texas communities before and after the storm event. This includes:

• Activating emergency response resources ahead of the severe weather.

• Coordinating joint damage assessments with local, state, and federal agencies to verify community needs.

The Governor’s swift action and the continued coordination between state and federal agencies signal a strong commitment to helping South Texans recover and rebuild as quickly as possible. Residents are encouraged to complete the iSTAT survey to ensure their damages are reported and considered as part of ongoing assistance efforts.