The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit organizations across Texas that federal disaster relief is still available for economic losses caused by the drought that began November 1, 2024. The deadline to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) is approaching fast—applications must be submitted by November 25, 2025.

This federal assistance is designed to help eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and private nonprofits—including faith-based organizations—recover from financial setbacks directly tied to the drought. While agricultural producers, farmers, and ranchers are not eligible, small aquaculture enterprises may qualify.

The disaster declaration spans a wide swath of Texas, covering more than 170 counties, including Bell, Coryell, McLennan, Williamson, and Travis, among others. It also includes select counties in New Mexico and Oklahoma.

EIDLs provide working capital to cover essential expenses such as payroll, fixed debts, accounts payable, and other bills that couldn’t be paid due to the disaster. Importantly, businesses do not need to have suffered physical damage to qualify.

“These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience.

Loan amounts can reach up to $2 million, with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for nonprofits. Terms can extend up to 30 years, and payments are deferred for 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.

To apply, visit sba.gov/disaster, call the SBA Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.