People walk through a flooded road after Hurricane Helene hit the area as it passed offshore on September 27, 2024 in Crystal River, Florida. Hurricane Helene made landfall Thursday night in Florida’s Big Bend with winds up to 140 mph and storm surges. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Florida homeowners and renters in 17 counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance. In Southwest Florida, that includes Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee Counties.
FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Charlotte, Citrus, Dixie, Franklin, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Taylor and Wakulla counties can apply.
Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance
If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby and have additional damage from Hurricane Helene, you will need to apply separately for Helene and provide the dates of your most recent damage. Apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800- 621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
FEMA’s disaster assistance offers new benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors. In addition, a simplified process and expanded eligibility allows Floridians access to a wider range of assistance and funds for serious needs.
What You’ll Need When You Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance
- 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 have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal FEMA disaster assistance.
Emergency Loans Available for Businesses Impacted by Hurricane Helene
FloridaCommerce has activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $15 million available to assist businesses in affected counties, including Charlotte County. Local businesses are encouraged to explore this opportunity for financial assistance.
Eligible small businesses, including sole proprietors, can apply for short-term, zero-interest loans of up to $50,000, while agriculture and aquaculture businesses can apply for loans of up to $100,000. The program is designed to provide financial relief while businesses secure long-term recovery funding, such as insurance claims or federal loans. Applications are open now through Nov. 24, 2024, or until funds are exhausted.
To learn more about the program, including lending guidelines and required documentation, or to apply, visit www.FloridaJobs.org/EBL. For additional assistance, business owners can call 833-832-4494 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
