With Hurricane Milton approaching the southeastern United States, many look toward disaster relief from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Indeed, knowing who all can avail the aid, how to qualify for the same, what benefits will be given, and where to apply greatly eases the recovery process for those affected by it. In this regard, the paper explains some of the critical aspects of FEMA disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Milton.
Who qualifies for FEMA aid?
Eligibility for disaster assistance provided by FEMA is normally identified based on the number of individuals or households having received damage from Hurricane Milton. Normal criteria are residency-applicants must be residing in areas that are declared disaster areas by FEMA. For Hurricane Milton, this includes counties in Florida and other affected states.
- Uninsured or underinsured losses: Individuals must have uninsured or underinsured losses due to the hurricane. That is, if the damages were covered by insurance, applicants might not qualify for additional federal assistance.
- Displacement: Homeowners that have become displaced because of their homes no longer being habitable due to storm damage, even if staying with friends or temporary accommodations, may be assisted.
- U.S. citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or qualified aliens.
Eligibility to receive aid
To receive FEMA assistance, people undergo an application process in several steps, first filing insurance claims and then applying with FEMA. Once people have filed an insurance claim, they may apply for assistance in various ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. This is the quickest way to apply.
- Mobile App: Apply with the FEMA mobile app, which also locates a Disaster Recovery Center. The center will open on dates to be announced.
- Phone: Apply to FEMA via phone by calling the Helpline at 800-621-3362. Applicants may also call that number to find out if they qualify for assistance.
Information needed when applying may require individuals to have available personal information, including Social Security numbers; the address of their primary dwelling at the time of the hurricane; their current address, if different; and a description of any hurricane-related damage to property.
Follow-up may be necessary once an application is submitted to verify damages through additional documentation or an on-site inspection.
The application cutoff date for FEMA funding due to Hurricane Milton is November 27, 2024.
How to apply for FEMA assistance
Those who have been impacted by Hurricane Milton can apply for assistance through one of several convenient methods:
- Online Application: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov and apply online quickly and easily.
- FEMA Mobile App: Download the application on your smartphone to directly access resource information and submit your application right from your device.
- FEMA Helpline: You can also dial 800-621-3362 and request assistance with the application process or any other questions on eligibility. There is multi-lingual support.
- Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs): Local DRCs have been set up across the affected areas where residents can obtain in-person assistance and help in filling out applications.
FEMA has been prompt in making this essential resource available to the residents during such a desperate time.
Read more: Goodbye to FEMA hurricane money – DHS’s blunt statement on funding after Hurricane Helene hits U.S.
