The federal government offers various assistance programs for individuals impacted by disasters such as Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in the Southeastern US. To access this funding, individuals must submit an application to the US Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). As of Friday morning, only FEMA aid for Hurricane Helene victims was available, with aid for Hurricane Milton victims expected to be available soon.
There are three ways to apply for FEMA assistance: calling the toll-free number, registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov or using the FEMA App, or visiting a Disaster Recovery Center in person. Floridians impacted by both hurricanes will need to submit two separate applications, one for each storm. Applicants must live in a declared disaster area and be a US citizen, noncitizen national, or a qualified noncitizen. They will also need to provide their Social Security number for identity verification.
For eligible individuals, FEMA provides a $750 direct payment to help with immediate essentials post-disaster, such as food, water, and clothing. Additional assistance is available for home repair, rental assistance, lodging expenses, personal property replacement or repair, child care expenses, and medical bills related to the disaster. The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest loans to renters, homeowners, businesses, and nonprofit organizations that have suffered disaster-related losses.
In addition to federal assistance, disaster victims may be eligible for aid from state and local organizations and nonprofits like the American Red Cross and the Florida Disaster Fund. The IRS is providing assistance to individuals living in FEMA-designated disaster areas by extending the deadline for filing tax returns and making tax payments for those affected by Hurricane Helene. Taxpayers who have lost property in a federally declared disaster may qualify for a casualty loss deduction and a larger refund. The IRS disaster hotline is available for further information.
Overall, individuals impacted by disasters like Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton can access various forms of assistance from FEMA, the SBA, state and local organizations, and the IRS. It is important for eligible individuals to apply for this aid to help with immediate needs, home repair, and other expenses related to the disaster. The federal government and other support organizations are working together to provide resources and assistance to those affected by these disasters.
