Many people are tasked with picking up the pieces following Hurricane Irma. Here is one way to make ends meet. People in several area counties are eligible for federal assistance.
Counties that are on the disaster declaration list include Brevard, Citrus, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Indian River, Lake, Marion, Martin, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Polk, St. Lucie, Seminole, Sumter,Broward, Charlotte, Collier, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Palm Beach, Pinellas, Putnam Sarasota and St. Johns.
FEMA is a good option for those in need of some help to cover damage costs. There are two ways to start that application: either on their website or download the FEMA app.
From there, enter your home address to check eligibility to ensure you're in one of the included counties.
In order to fill out the application, here's what you'll need:
- Social Security Number
- Phone number
- Current mailing address and address of the damaged property
- Any available private insurance information
- Documentation of the damage to support your application
The status of an application can be checked on their website or through text/email updates.
There is an option to call, those who use 711 relay or VRS can use 1-800-621-FEMA and TTY users can call 1-800-462-7585. Those numbers are operating from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. seven days a week.
Applicants should document their registration number and keep it handy for future reference.
Other financial assistance options include The Red Cross.
WTSP is working to get answers on why Pasco, Citrus, Hernando Counties are not yet listed for FEMA assistance.
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