SAN CARLOS ISLAND, FLORIDA – SEPTEMBER 29: Passersby photographs damage caused by rising water on San Carlos Island near Fort Myers Beach on September 29, 2022 in San Carlos Island, Florida. Hurricane Ian brought high winds, storm surge and rain to the area causing severe damage.
In the wake of Hurricane Ian, Florida homeowners and renters in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.
Survivors can apply at www.disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 from 7 am to 11 pm ET, or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Please note that when you apply for assistance, you need to have the following information ready:
A current phone number where you can be contacted
Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
Your Social Security number
A general list of damage and losses
Banking information if you choose direct deposit
If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name
If You Need Immediate Help
If you have needs that FEMA is not authorized to provide, check with your local emergency management officials, voluntary agencies or by dialing your local 2-1-1.
How To Apply for Disaster Assistance
The fastest way to apply is through DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply through the FEMA mobile app or by calling 1-800-621-3362. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service, or other communication services, please provide FEMA the specific number assigned for that service. Learn more about the application process here.
If You Need to Get In Touch with FEMA's Small Business Administration: go here.
If You've Applied For Assistance, Here's What Happens Next
To Download FEMA's "Help After A Disaster" Brochures (translated in 27 languages), go here.
