We are pleased to announce that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved a disaster declaration for the severe storms and flooding that impacted six counties in northeastern Illinois, from July 2-4, 2026.  The declaration covers the Illinois counties of Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, and McHenry.  This declaration makes available low interest federal disaster loans for Illinois small businesses, private non-profits, and residents to help cover damage and losses not covered by insurance.
 
If you wish to apply for this loan online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunication relay services.
 
 If you prefer to speak to someone in person, SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Centers have also opened in a number of locations.  SBA customer service representatives will be available at each center to answer questions, explain the application process and help applicants complete their applications.  Walk-Ins are welcome.  Eligible residents and business owners may visit any Disaster Loan Outreach Center, regardless of where they live.
 
Prisco Center, 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora, IL  (Open August 10-22)
 Hours:  Monday – Friday:  9am – 7pm
                              Saturday:  9am – 2pm
 
Elgin Township Building, 729 S. McLean Blvd., Elgin, IL  (Open Aug. 17 – Sept. 1)
 Hours:  Monday – Friday:  8am – 6pm
                              Saturday: 9am – 2pm
 
Hanover Park Police Department, 2011 W. Lake St. (Open Aug. 24 – Sept. 5)
 Hours:  Monday – Friday:  9am – 7pm
                              Saturday: 9am – 2pm
 
 The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is October 5, 2026.  The deadline to return economic injury applications is May 5, 2027.