How To Apply For FEMA Assistance In Florida

Those of us in Florida face what may be a very active hurricane season in 2024. While you have time to prepare for a storm - do so. But if you need to apply for FEMA assistance after a storm, here's what you'll need to do. First up, if you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the storm, insurance companies may set up remote locations in the area. This was done here in Southwest Florida after Hurricane Ian. Use this radio station and other local media outlets for locations and hours. If there's areas where your insurance coverage is lacking, or if your damage is not covered, here's what FEMA can help with. Assistance can include financial help with immediate needs, temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses. Are You Eligible? FEMA is very clear on which affected areas are eligible for assistance. If you're unsure, before you contact FEMA, check their Disasters and Other Declarations page. They also have an X (Twitter) account for Florida and nearby states. Before You Apply For FEMA Assistance, Have These Things 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 You cannot 'double dip'. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. FEMA can help if your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses. How To Apply For FEMA Assistance Here are 3 ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov Use the FEMA App Call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET daily. Multilingual operators are available. How To Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhtlyTX49RE How To Apply For FEMA Assistance Florida Disaster Assistance Although hurricanes are our main threat here in Florida, FEMA can also help with other disasters such as flooding, straight line winds, or tornadoes. Again, if you're unsure, check the 'Are You Eligible' section of this article.