Multiple means available for submitting applications
The deadline for Floridians to apply for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance related to the effects of Hurricanes Helene and Milton has been extended to Jan. 7, 2025, Sarasota County staff has been advising the public.
“Homeowners and renters with losses from Hurricanes Milton and Helene may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses,” a news release explains.
“Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App,” the release adds. Persons also may apply by phone at 800-621-3362, the release points out. “Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service,” the release continues.
“For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance — YouTube,” the release says.
“If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby or Helene and have additional damage from Hurricane Milton, you will need to apply separately for Milton and provide the dates of your most recent damage,” the release points out.
Further, the release notes, “If you receive a letter from FEMA saying you are not eligible for federal assistance or that your application is incomplete, you have 60 days from the date of that letter to submit the missing documentation or to appeal FEMA’s decision.”
The release advises, with emphasis, “Read the letter carefully. It will provide additional information on what your next steps will be. For example, you may need to submit insurance documents or receipts. You may need to confirm your identity or provide proof of residency. Or it may be something as simple as a missing signature.”
Then the release says, also with emphasis, “If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, you may appeal.”
For the latest information about the Hurricane Milton recovery, county staff encourages the public to visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828.