Rep. Scott Provides Update on FEMA Assistance, SBA Center Opening
A major disaster declaration has been approved in response to the August 18th extreme flooding in our area. Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by clicking here, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA app.
Federal assistance could include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners.
FEMA home inspections are starting to take place. Typically, after a filing an application for disaster assistance, a FEMA inspector will contact the household within a few days to schedule an appointment. The inspector’s phone number may be from out of state or show up on caller ID as “unavailable.”
A typical inspection takes up to 45 minutes to complete. You or your designated co-applicant will need to meet with an inspector and provide a photo ID. Here’s a guide of what to expect during a home visit.
FEMA never charges a fee for an inspection. The inspector carries an official photo ID and will never ask for bank information. FEMA will mail you a decision letter about eligibility for assistance.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has opened a Business Recovery Center (BRC) in Monroe, at the Monroe Police Department, to assist businesses with losses due to severe storm, flooding, landslides and mudslides. The disaster declaration covers Fairfield, Litchfield and New Haven counties which are eligible for both Physical and Economic Injury Disaster Loans from the SBA. Hours are Mon. – Fri. 8AM to 6PM and Sat. 10AM to 2PM.
SBA’s Customer Service Representatives can assist business owners complete their disaster loan application, accept documents, and provide updates on an application’s status.
Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment at an SBA Business Recovery Center in advance.