Fact Sheets
If your home was damaged by Hurricane Idalia but you can live in it safely, FEMA may be able to provide up to $300 in one-time financial assistance to help with cleanup. This assistance is for eligible homeowners and renters.
FEMA may provide financial assistance to Hurricane Idalia applicants who have immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling.
After you apply for FEMA assistance, you may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If you are asked to submit an SBA disaster loan application, there are benefits to filling it out and sending it in right away. If approved, you are not obligated to accept the SBA loan but failure to return the application may disqualify you from other possible FEMA grants to pay for disaster-related car repairs or replacement, essential household items and other expenses.
If you live in Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Pasco, Pinellas, Suwannee and Taylor counties and were affected by Hurricane Idalia, FEMA may be able to help with temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs or other essential disaster-related needs that are not covered by insurance.
Here are common reasons why FEMA may decide that some Maui residents who had damage from the wildfires that began Aug. 8 may not be eligible for disaster assistance. If FEMA says you are ineligible for assistance, it is not a denial. Often, you need only send more information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue reviewing your application for financial assistance.
Houses of Worship and other nonprofit organizations may be eligible for FEMA assistance to help reimburse for emergency protective measures, debris removal and restoration of facilities damaged by the July severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides.
Fake or unlicensed contractors may try to take advantage of Mississippi residents affected by the June tornadoes. Homeowners need to hire contractors who are authorized to do the work, will complete the work, and will do a good job.
Not Only for Businesses. You do not need to own a business to apply for a disaster loan from the SBA. If your primary residence is in Jackson or Jasper counties and had disaster damage, you may apply.
If you receive a letter from FEMA saying you are ineligible for assistance, don’t panic. It simply means FEMA may need more information. If you disagree with FEMA’s decision about your application, you may appeal. It’s your right.
Disaster survivors should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after a disaster. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.