One storm can change your entire life. When a hurricane hits, individual lives and communities can be devastated in the blink of an eye.
We know that navigating the “what’s next” after a storm can be tremendously frustrating. We’re here to help.
Here’s how to get help if you’ve been affected by Hurricane Michael:
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If you’ve suffered damage
Call FEMA. Contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) (TTY: 1-800-462-7585). Operators there will process your application. Further assistance will be coordinated through a local or regional Disaster Recovery Center. You may also apply online for federal disaster assistance.
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If you don’t have a place to stay
You may be eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance through FEMA. This covers the cost to stay in certain hotels or motels for a limited period of time. Costs covered are for the cost of the room and taxes, but any other expenses aren’t included. (Click here to see if you qualify.) … Also, Expedia has activated its “emergency accommodations module”to assist anyone seeking lodging in North Florida and the Panhandle.
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If your house made it, but the roof isn’t secure
Reach out to Operation Blue Roof, which provides homeowners in disaster areas with fiber-reinforced plastic sheeting to cover their damaged roofs until arrangements can be made for permanent repairs. Operation Blue Roof is for primary residences or permanently occupied rental properties with less than 50 percent structural damage. Vacation rental properties are not eligible for the program.
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If you need help with an insurance claim
Contact the Florida’s Chief Financial Officer’s Division of Consumer Services. The consumer hotline (877-693-5236, weekdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm EST) offers consumers direct access to insurance experts to answer questions as well as provide information and resources. You can speak directly with individuals who can review your policies to help you understand your coverage, assist in filing claims for damage and offer direction in communicating with your insurance company.
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If you’ve experienced flooding
The National Flood Insurance Program might be able to help. You can file a claim online or call — 1-800-621-3362 — to speak to a specialist.
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If your business was damaged
Low-interest disaster loans are available through the Federal Small Business Administration. These loans can be used to repair or replace the following items damaged or destroyed in a declared disaster: real estate, personal property, machinery and equipment, and inventory and business assets.
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If your income has been affected
The state Disaster Unemployment Assistance Program may bring you some relief to businesses and residents whose employment or self-employment has been lost or interrupted because of a hurricane. Apply online or by calling 800-385-3920.
Article Source: FloridaRealtors.org
Article Link: https://www.floridarealtors.org/AboutFar/DisasterReliefFund/Disaster-Relief-Efforts.cfm
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