(Source: Florida Courier)
If you sustained damage or loss from Hurricanes Milton or Helene, FEMA may be able to help.
You may be eligible for financial assistance for displacement, serious needs, temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses.
The quickest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA app for mobile devices.
You can also call the FEMA helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362.
Be patient if you choose to apply by phone. FEMA is increasing staff at call centers but wait times may be longer because of increased volume for multiple recent disasters. Lines are open every day, and help is available in most languages.
If you are approved for FEMA assistance, you may receive $750-$770 initially for immediate needs. After that award, you may be eligible for more financial assistance for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other disaster-caused expenses. Applicants should stay in touch with FEMA to ensure their application continues through the process for additional assistance.
Application deadlines: Hurricane Debby Nov. 12, 2024; Hurricane Helene Nov. 27, 2024; Hurricane Milton Dec. 11, 2024.
To date, FEMA has approved $188 million to help Floridians with losses from Helene, $41 million for Debby and $11.8 million for Milton.
If you applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Helene, Debby, Idalia, Ian or previous storms, you must apply separately for assistance after Hurricane Milton.
FEMA has created a Rumor Control page. Know what’s true and what isn’t. Hurricane Rumor Response | FEMA.gov
Be alert to fraud
FEMA personnel working in areas impacted by the hurricanes carry official photo identification. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment.
If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department or contact Florida’s Office of the Attorney General by calling 866-9-NO-SCAM (866-966-7226) or visit myfloridalegal.com. To file a fraud complaint, go online to Scam Report (myfloridalegal.com).
Follow the direction of local authorities as you clean up. Be aware of safety concerns and separate debris for collection as instructed by local officials. Before cleaning up, make sure to document any property damage with photos and receipts. Use generators only outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and attached garages. Make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding.
Disaster Recovery Centers: Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) and FEMA are urgently reopening centers that were in place for Debby and Helene prior to Milton and these centers can serve people affected by all three hurricanes. New locations are being assessed to meet the needs in areas heavily impacted by Milton.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online at SBA.gov/disaster. Disaster loan information and application forms can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955.
Resources
DisasterAssistance.gov
Florida Division of Emergency Management