Homeowners and renters who experienced damages or losses due to Hurricanes Milton or Helene can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance. If you’ve already applied for assistance after Hurricane Helene but have sustained additional damage from Hurricane Milton, you must submit a separate application for Milton, including the dates of the new damage.

FEMA can assist with immediate serious needs, temporary lodging, rental assistance, and clean-up support. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance for both hurricanes is January 7, 2025.

You can apply for assistance through www.DisasterAssistance.gov, the FEMA app, or by calling 1-800-621-3362. Assistance is available in multiple languages. If you use special communication services like video relay or captioned telephone, provide FEMA with the specific number for that service. For more details, view additional information.

Has Your Situation Changed Since Applying for FEMA Assistance?

If your circumstances have changed since your initial FEMA application (e.g., increased damage or uninhabitable home), update your application by calling FEMA at 1-800-621-3362.

Disaster Recovery Center

Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are central hubs offering services like application help, information on assistance programs, translation services, application status checks, and access to recovery resources. The DRC is at the Enoch D. Davis Center, 1111 18th Ave. S., St. Petersburg, open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, except for holidays on December 24-25 and December 31-January 1. If your FEMA application was denied, visit the DRC for help updating your application.

Pinellas County Hurricane Home Repair Program Application Opens December 23, 2024

The Hurricane Home Repair Program offers up to $30,000 in grants for uninsured storm repairs caused by Hurricanes Helene or Milton, funded by the Florida State Housing Initiatives Partnership Program (SHIP) and Pinellas County. It’s important to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance by January 7, 2025, if you haven’t yet, to be eligible for this program. Visit Pinellas.gov/StormRepair for more information.

Text Updates About Future Financial Help

To stay updated on financial assistance programs for rebuilding and storm mitigation in Florida, text RECOVER to 888777 or check disaster.pinellas.gov. Over $400 million is expected to aid in recovery, potentially benefiting those with significant repair needs or who need to elevate their homes.

Want to win a $25 Amazon gift card? 

To enter, simply follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, or X between now and Tuesday, December 24th. (Psst… You can enter up to 4x by following us on all four! But sorry, U.S. residents only.)

(Image credit: iStock)