What Types of Assistance Can You Expect From FEMA?

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

What Types of Assistance Can You Expect From FEMA?

When you're affected by heavy storm damage, you can get emergency help from the government through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Financial assistance can be used to help you get back on your feet. Before getting into the services FEMA provides, take a look at who qualifies:

• Was your home damage a direct result of the storm?
• Is your home uninhabitable?
• Did you need to stay in a hotel because of power or water loss?
• Have you checked with your insurance provider?
• Do you live within a mandatory evacuation zone?
  
  

If your insurance company covers your losses, the agency won't pay for any covered costs for repairs or hotel bills.

Structural Repairs to Your Home

The grants from FEMA are intended to pay for minimal repairs that make it safe for you to live in your home. The financial assistance should go to the structural repairs your home needs. These repairs may include the foundation, walls, doors, cabinetry, and roof of your home, for example. If you aren't sure how much money you'll need, get an estimate from flood damage repair and recovery experts.

Temporary Housing

Sometimes, such as during Hurricane Harvey, it's not safe to remain in your home. Whether the dangers are related to power and water outages or structural damages, you may get help paying for a hotel room. If your insurance provides this type of cover during the flood, the agency won't cover the costs. If you do qualify, you'll need to find a hotel participating in the government's transitional housing program.

Medical Equipment

When you require a generator for medical devices, the government agency may reimburse you for the cost. To get this reimbursement, you must save your receipt and get a letter from your doctor. With this information, follow the registration process and wait to be contacted.
FEMA offers several services to help you out when flooding and other emergencies have made it impossible to remain in your Upper Cumberland home. Determine whether you qualify and then take the appropriate registration steps for financial assistance, loans, and reimbursement.