The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is reminding Georgia residents to use their federal disaster assistance grant money wisely.
According to a release, FEMA sends a letter to those who received the grant explaining what the funds can be used for and listing ways the money can be used.
“Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses,” FEMA said.
The agency is advising survivors to keep receipts for all expenses for at least three years because FEMA can require repayment of the grant if it is spent on anything other than the intended purpose.
FEMA provided examples of what the grant covers:
- Home repairs such as structure, water, septic, and sewage systems.
- Rental assistance for rent and/or deposit.
- Repair or replacement of a flooded essential vehicle.
- Medical or dental care for an uninsured injury caused by the disaster.
- Repair of occupational specialized tools.
- Necessary educational materials such as computers, schoolbooks, and supplies.
- Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster.
- Increased childcare expenses.
FEMA also says it is important to make sure the agency has the most up-to-date information, including addresses, phone numbers, and bank accounts. If the agency does not have accurate information, survivors may miss letters or phone calls about assistance applications or payment status.
Anyone with questions about the FEMA disaster assistance grant is asked to contact the FEMA Helpline at (800) 621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. Eastern Time. Help is available in most languages.
