Floridians who were impacted by the April 12–14 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Broward County may be eligible for FEMA assistance to repair or replace a vehicle.
Other Needs Assistance (ONA) for Vehicles
FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance (ONA) provides financial help after a disaster to cover necessary expenses and serious needs not paid by insurance or other sources. This may include repair or replacement of a vehicle. You must first apply to FEMA (800-621-3362, DisasterAssistance.gov, or FEMA mobile app), then submit an application for a disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If you are denied a loan, or if the loan does not cover all the expense, you may be referred to FEMA for ONA consideration.
For assistance to repair or replace a vehicle, the damage must have been caused by the disaster and the vehicle must no longer be operable or safe to drive. Cosmetic repairs will not be covered. Other conditions include:
- The vehicle must have been damaged by the April 12-14 disaster and must have been located in Broward County at the time.
- Assistance is usually limited to one vehicle. If there is a second functional vehicle in the household, the applicant must certify in writing that the damaged vehicle is essential for the household’s daily use.
- The vehicle must be in compliance with state registration and insurance requirements.
- The vehicle must be owned or leased (not a rental) by the applicant, co-applicant, or household member.
- The damaged vehicle must be an approved vehicle type, such as a car, truck, SUV or van.
- The amount provided for repair or replacement is based on the degree of damage and the amount the state has determined for the maximum repair and replacement value.
Documentation
- Documentation required for consideration, includes, but is not limited to:
- Proof of insurance policy showing the type of coverage or proof of vehicle meets the state’s requirement
- Insurance provider settlement or statement that insurance coverage does not exists, for vehicle repair
- A verifiable estimate, bill, or receipt confirming the damage was caused by the disaster, with labor and parts/replacement costs. For vehicle replacement, additional documentation is necessary from state or local government confirming the vehicle was salvaged due to the disaster.