Hurricane Idalia – Initial Disaster Assistance and Recovery Response

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) is issuing this inspection report to present the results of our assessment of the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) initial response to Hurricane Idalia, including staffing, loan application volume, and timeliness of disaster loan approvals.

We found SBA’s initial response to Hurricane Idalia was timely and effective. The agency established a field presence within 3 business days and opened a Business Recovery Center within 10 business days for both Florida and Georgia. Additionally, SBA was responsive to the increase in loan applications that resulted from the hurricane.

Residents reported positive experiences with the customer service received at the recovery centers.