Good morning! First, let me send my thoughts and prayers to all of you dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.
That brings us to our top line -- that FEMA letter.
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I’m told that Hurricane Ian survivors who applied for assistance from FEMA will receive a letter from FEMA in the mail or via email.
The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.
Applicants may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:
- Proof of insurance coverage
- Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
- Proof of identity
- Proof of occupancy
- Proof of ownership
- Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster
If you have questions about your letter, call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.
DEO bridge loans
DEO Secretary Dane Eagle tells me no-interest, short-term bridge loans will be available to small businesses across the state.
“Florida’s small business owners in need of assistance can now apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program at FloridaJobs.org/EBL,” Eagle said
Loans approved through the Emergency Bridge Loan Program are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business and when a business has secured longer term recovery funding, such as federally or commercially available loans, insurance claims or other resources. Eligible small businesses may apply for loans of up to $50,000 through the program.
Business owners who need further program information may call 833-832-4494 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.
State benefits
Finally, the work search reporting for state benefits has been waived.
DEO tells me the work search reporting, waiting week and Employ Florida registration requirements for Reemployment Assistance claims have been temporarily waived for Floridians impacted by Hurricane Ian in FEMA disaster-declared counties. By waiving these requirements, eligible Floridians will be able to quickly apply and receive reemployment assistance and disaster unemployment assistance benefits.
To file a claim, go to floridajobs.org and select “File a Claim,” visit a local CareerSource Career Center or call 800-385-3920. Customer service representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET to assist claimants. For DUA claims information, call 833-FL-APPLY (833-352-7759) to speak with a representative.
If you need additional guidance on any issue, email maeendsmeet@wkmg.com or text the words Make Ends Meet to 407-676-7428
