Peters announces disaster assistance in response to summer storms

CHICAGO — State Senator Robert Peters is sharing disaster assistance for those affected by the summer storms. Families and businesses in Cook County may be eligible for recovery assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration as well as waived tax penalties and interest.

“The people I represent in Chicago, especially on the South Side, faced some of the strongest storms our state has ever seen this summer, leading to widespread damage and power outages that families and business owners are still trying to recover from,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “I encourage all residents in the 13th District to apply for the disaster loans and tax relief they need so our communities can begin to recover and shift their focus to rebuilding.”

Residents seeking a waiver of penalties and interest for taxes should send a brief written explanation to the Illinois Department of Revenue regarding why they cannot file timely or pay. They should provide their full name, account number (if using a Social Security number, include only the last four digits), mailing address, and an estimate of when they believe they can file or pay their taxes.

Requests may be submitted electronically to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by postal mail using the address on the return. When submitting by mail, taxpayers should write “Severe Storms - Summer 2026” at the top of the return in red ink and attach or include the explanation for requesting abatement of penalties and interest.

Taxpayers who experienced property damage should contact their county supervisor of assessments if they wish to apply for a reassessment.

Additionally, residents of Cook County are eligible to apply for SBA’s long-term, low interest disaster loans. Three types of loans are available:

• Business Physical Disaster Loans: Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventory, supplies, machinery and equipment. These applications must be received by the SBA no later than Oct. 19, 2026.
• Economic Injury Disaster Loans: Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private nonprofits meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a result of the disaster. These applications must be submitted to the SBA no later than May 18, 2027.
• Home Disaster Loans: Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles. These loan applications are due Oct. 19, 2026.

Applicants can apply for SBA assistance and receive additional disaster information here or by calling the SBA Customer Service line at 800-659-2955.