County staff providing details about how to seek FEMA assistance
This week, Disaster Assistance Teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are in Sarasota County neighborhoods that suffered the most damage from Tropical Storm Debby early, Sarasota County staff has reported this week.
The team members are “going door-to-door to assess and register community members for resources,” a county recovery update says. “These teams will be wearing neon FEMA vests. When in doubt, ask for authentication,” the update advises the public.
Both Sarasota County residents and business owners who sustained losses in designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App, county staff points out.
To learn more about agency’s assistance, staff says, visit the FEMA website.
“If you applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Debby,” the update continues, “you will receive an eligibility letter from FEMA in the mail or by email. The letter will explain the application status and how to respond. You may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance,” the update says.
Examples of missing documentation may include the following, it notes:
- “Proof of insurance coverage.
- “Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider.
- “Proof of identity.
- “Proof of occupancy.
- “Proof of ownership.
- Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster.”
Anyone with questions about a FEMA letter, or anyone who disagrees with the initial decision, may visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362, the county update points out.