ALBANY, Ga. — In the wake of Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene, FEMA has announced rental assistance for residents displaced from their primary homes.
This financial aid aims to help affected individuals and families secure temporary housing while they recover from the disasters.
Residents in Georgia who live in the eight counties designated for Tropical Storm Debby and the 63 counties impacted by Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply for this assistance when seeking overall disaster relief.
Key Details of FEMA Rental Assistance
FEMA’s Rental Assistance program is designed to cover monthly rent and, in some cases, a security deposit for those who cannot live in their damaged homes.
The temporary housing can be near essential locations such as work, school, home, or places of worship.
The assistance may also cover essential utilities, including:
- Gas
- Oil
- Trash removal
- Sewer services
- Electricity
- Water
Please note that the assistance does not cover non-essential utilities such as cable or internet.
Rental Assistance Coverage
The approved rental amount will be determined by fair market rates specific to each area, as set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
- Initial Assistance: The first award may cover up to two months of rent.
- Continued Assistance: Survivors seeking extended support must meet certain conditions and provide documentation showing the rental assistance was used appropriately.
Eligibility for Continued Rental Assistance
To qualify for continued assistance, you must:
- Have been awarded the initial rental assistance and used it as intended.
- Be unable to return to your primary home because it is either inaccessible or uninhabitable.
- Lack the financial means for housing without additional assistance.
- Not be receiving temporary housing support from other sources.
- Provide updates on your progress toward obtaining permanent housing.
Required Documentation
To apply for or extend rental assistance, you will need:
- Proof of current household income.
- A copy of the current lease, utility bill, and renter’s insurance information.
- A signed lease or rental agreement between you and the landlord.
- Receipts, canceled checks, or money orders showing rental assistance was used for housing expenses.
- Evidence of progress toward permanent housing, such as a contractor’s repair estimate.
FEMA emphasizes the importance of maintaining regular communication if your circumstances change, as this could impact your eligibility.
Steps to Continue Assistance
If your initial rental assistance is approved, FEMA may send you an application for Continued Temporary Housing Assistance within 15 days. If you do not receive this application, it is essential to contact FEMA promptly.
- Contact Information: Call FEMA at 800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center.
- Documentation Retention: Survivors are advised to keep all relevant receipts and records for at least three years.
FEMA’s ultimate goal is to help affected individuals transition to permanent, safe, and functional housing within a reasonable timeframe.
By working toward this objective, survivors can remain eligible for ongoing support.
For more information, visit FEMA’s website or contact their support.
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