Fri Oct 18 14:10:00 UTC 2024: ## Double Hurricane Devastation: FEMA Offers Aid, But Misinformation Abounds

**Southeastern states are reeling from the aftermath of two devastating hurricanes, Helene and Milton, which have claimed over 230 lives and left countless residents without power, shelter, or income.** While the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has assured the public that they have sufficient funds to address both disasters, misinformation about the available aid has been circulating.

**Independent disaster consultant Jessica Vermilyea urges survivors to ignore negative comments online and apply for FEMA assistance.** “FEMA does really want you to get the benefits that are available to you,” she said. Vermilyea emphasizes that FEMA has made policy reforms in recent years, potentially providing more benefits than in past disasters.

**FEMA offers various forms of assistance, including:**

* **Individual Assistance:** This is available in designated counties and can cover expenses like medical bills, personal property, child care, and transportation.
* **Serious Needs Assistance:** This provides direct upfront payments for emergency supplies like food, water, first aid, and infant formula.
* **Displacement Assistance:** This assists with hotel costs for up to 14 days.
* **Housing Assistance:** This helps with home repairs or rebuilding, capped at $42,500.

**FEMA also offers additional housing assistance for those with disabilities, as well as lodging and rental expense reimbursements.** It’s important to note that while you can’t receive duplicate benefits from FEMA and insurance, FEMA may supplement your coverage.

**To apply for FEMA assistance, individuals can visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA app, call 1-800-621-3362, or visit a Disaster Recovery Center.**

**Other resources available to hurricane survivors include:**

* **Disaster Unemployment Assistance:** This program provides weekly benefits to unemployed individuals impacted by the disaster.
* **U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans:** The SBA offers low-interest loans for businesses and homeowners for repairs and rebuilding. While currently paused due to funding limitations, the SBA encourages applications.
* **Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Tax Relief:** The IRS is offering tax filing extensions and disaster-related tax benefits for affected taxpayers.

**Vermilyea encourages survivors to file claims with their insurance company and apply for FEMA assistance.** She also advises against multiple applications from the same household and emphasizes that individuals impacted by both hurricanes should only apply once for each disaster.

**For more information on available resources, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, the FEMA website, or the IRS website.** This information is crucial for those navigating the difficult recovery process following these catastrophic hurricanes.

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