WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Representatives with FEMA are still on the ground in Florida after the tornado outbreak earlier this month spawned by Hurricane Milton.
WPTV asked how the agency can help you get assistance if you were affected by the storms.
Reporter Matt Sczesny spoke with Willie Nunn, a FEMA regional administrator in Tallahassee, on Tuesday.
We asked him how storm victims can get help from FEMA.
The first thing to keep in mind is that FEMA is not here to replace insurance. What they offer is immediate emergency assistance to help people get back on their feet.
WATCH BELOW: FEMA official explains what you need to know before applying
Nunn said anyone who has been impacted or felt the impact of the hurricane — and that includes the tornadoes — should apply.
He offered some advice on how to be prepared for a conversation with a FEMA representative.
"Identify yourself and talk about your circumstances because that initial call will (involve) things like ... I'm impacted, without power," Nunn said. "You may be eligible for one-time assistance like serious needs assistance. That's $750."
In addition to the $750, FEMA can offer other assistance with some limited damage and even rental or temporary housing.
The grants top out at $42,000, but it's rare for a storm victim to receive that amount. The average grant is usually a few thousand dollars.
Nunn advised those in need to register at disasterassistance.gov/, download the FEMA app to apply or call 1-800-621-3362 and be sure to reference Hurricane Milton and your circumstances.
Matt Sczesny is determined every day to help you find solutions in Florida's coverage collapse. If you have a question or comment on homeowners insurance, you can reach out to him any time.
Read WPTV's latest "Coverage Collapse" stories below:
-
Why you should shop now for the holidays
WPTV is diving into the numbers and how the tariffs could put a major price tag on holiday shopping this season.
Consumers weary amid tariffs, market swings
President Trump's on-again, off-again tariff actions have sparked major stock market swings, and they're leaving consumers and lawmakers hesitant about what's next.
Is it better to buy or rent in 2025?
It now costs 21% more to buy versus rent in the U.S., according to new housing market analysis. Construction Coverage identified cities and counties where it's still cheaper to buy a home.
Consumer prices dip in March; economists cautious about future trends
With the recent implementation of tariffs, economists warn that consumers may face higher prices despite an overall easing of the inflation rate.
