Applying online is the easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to apply. You can also Call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362: 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. (PST). In the coming days, FEMA will also open Disaster Recovery Centers where you can apply in person. • You should apply for FEMA assistance. fema.gov/disaster/4856 You can apply even if you have insurance. Disaster assistance may be able to fill insurance gaps or provide help if you’ve been waiting more than 30 days on a homeowner’s claim. You should apply as soon as possible (some assistance will not be available until after you get your insurance settlement) o You should apply as soon as possible, even if you are not sure of your eligibility. This helps reduce the potential for someone fraudulently using your address and ensures your application is in on time. o Even if you do not think you are eligible, you should apply to FEMA because failure to do so can affect eligibility in other programs. o FEMA Individual Assistance consists of multiple federal programs to help disaster survivors start to recover. These programs include, but are not limited to: Housing Rental Assistance Funds for Repair / Replacement of Damaged Homes Disaster Legal Services Disaster Unemployment Assistance Other Needs Assistance • Housing Assistance o Even if you did not lose your home but were evacuated or displaced, FEMA can provide Lodging Expense Reimbursement and Displacement Assistance. o FEMA Housing Assistance can be especially helpful if you lack Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage or insurance. o FEMA Rental Assistance can cover temporary housing costs. Generally, if approved, you will receive two months of rental assistance based on the fair market rate (established by HUD) and household size. Though this is often not enough to fully cover actual housing costs, it can certainly make a big difference. If eligible, FEMA Rental Assistance can be extended up to 18 additional months. • FEMA often sends correspondence via mail. Make sure you provide FEMA with a mailing address (PO Box) where you will be able to regularly receive mail while you are displaced. • FEMA appeals are also complex and they often deny you first.
Venbrook Insurance Services | CA License 0D80832
Next Steps: Where to Start After a Fire
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