Deadline to Apply for FEMA Assistance Extended to Jan. 7
FEMA Application Deadline Extension:
The deadline for Floridians to apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricanes Milton and Helene has been extended to Jan. 7, 2025.
Homeowners and renters with losses from Hurricanes Milton and Helene may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for displacement, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses.
Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to FEMA Accessible: Applying for Individual Assistance – YouTube.
FEMA may be able to help residents with immediate serious needs, temporary lodging expenses and rental assistance. Apply for FEMA Assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), going to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA app or visiting the Disaster Recovery Center. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby or Helene and have additional damage from Hurricane Milton, you will need to apply separately for Milton and provide the dates of your most recent damage.
If you receive a letter from FEMA saying you are not eligible for federal assistance or that your application is incomplete, you have 60 days from the date of that letter to submit the missing documentation or to appeal FEMA’s decision.
Read the letter carefully. It will provide additional information on what your next steps will be. For example, you may need to submit insurance documents or receipts. You may need to confirm your identity or provide proof of residency. Or it may be something as simple as a missing signature.
If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, you may appeal. More information on the appeal process can be found here.