Providence, RI - With just one week to go before FEMA's and SBA's May 28 deadline for flood victims to apply for recovery aid, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse are strongly encouraging all Rhode Islanders hit by the floods to register for state/federal assistance.

To date, nearly 25,000 Rhode Island households and businesses have applied through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and have received over $61 million in approved disaster grants and loans ($33.1 million through the Individuals & Households Program (IHP), and $28.3 million through the Small Business Administration's (SBA) loans).

However, many more eligible households and businesses may be missing out on needed assistance.

"We want to ensure that all Rhode Islanders get the assistance they need and understand all the options available to help them. Many folks who are eligible for assistance haven't applied yet. Even if you have insurance, we urge people whose property was affected to register with FEMA before the May 28 deadline so you can access federal aid if necessary," said Reed and Whitehouse in a joint statement.

Rhode Islanders can register by calling: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or going to: disasterassistance.gov.

There is also an important second step that few Rhode Islanders have completed: filling out the SBA loan application that is part of the FEMA assistance package.

The SBA has partnered with FEMA to provide low interest loans to individual homeowners, not just businesses.

"In addition to registering with FEMA for assistance, it could be very important for you to also fill out an SBA loan application, as it may increase the benefits you receive. Filling out the SBA loan application will not obligate you to accept a loan. However, if you fail to complete this important SBA form, you may be excluded from receiving the full slate of federal benefits," noted Reed and Whitehouse. "Though Rhode Islanders may not need assistance in the form of a loan right now, you never know what may come up - mold damage may appear later, for instance, and filling out the application before the deadline is required to access these funds in the future." Reed and Whitehouse are continuing their efforts to secure additional resources for Rhode Island's flood recovery effort.

Completing the SBA loan application may also make applicants eligible for additional "Other Needs Assistance" benefits offered through FEMA.

Rhode Islanders have until midnight on Friday, May 28 to register.