One Week Left to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance for Flood Damage

Posted on June 27, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI

Those who experienced flood damage this past February have just over a week left to register for federal disaster assistance. The deadline is Thursday, July 5.

You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center remains open today through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Rensselaer Fire Department at 1060 West Clark.

Marshall, Starke, Pulaski, and LaPorte County residents who experienced uninsured flood damage at their primary residence are encouraged to register. FEMA’s individual assistance grants are designed to help with the cost of bringing damaged homes back to a safe and functional standard.

Homeowners and renters may also apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration, up to $200,000 for a homeowner’s primary residence and up to $40,000 for personal property. For more information, visit sba.gov/disaster.

If you’ve already registered with FEMA and have been found ineligible, FEMA officials say to read your letter carefully to understand why. If FEMA asks for more information, there’s a chance you may be reconsidered for assistance, if you send it within 60 days.

Additionally, Starke, Pulaski, and LaPorte County residents whose employment was lost or interrupted by the storms and flooding may also be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance. More information can be found on the Indiana Department of Workforce Development’s website or by calling 800-891-6499. Applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance are due by July 9.