Deadline extended for Oklahomans to apply for May storms disaster assistance

The deadline for Oklahomans to apply for FEMA disaster assistance has been extended. Those affected by tornadoes, severe storms and flooding May 2 through 8 now have until Sept. 28 to apply for federal assistance.

The White House approved Oklahoma’s federal disaster assistance request in June. Funds can be used for housing repairs or temporary housing.

Homeowners or business owners who had buildings damaged in Tulsa, Okmulgee, Muskogee, Adair, Cherokee, Seminole and Pottawatomie counties are eligible to apply.

If you have not applied for federal assistance, FEMA says there are several reasons why it may be a necessary to do so.

Even if you have insurance, FEMA says you should apply for assistance because sometimes damage is found that insurance won’t cover, but federal disaster assistance may. FEMA also advises damage that may not be visible now, may be discovered during repair work. If you applied for disaster assistance, these repairs may be covered.

Most state and federal disaster assistance programs are available to individuals of all income levels. The kind of help provided depends on the applicant’s circumstances.

FEMA says disaster assistance grants are not taxable income and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid, welfare assistance, SNAP, Supplemental Security Income or any other federal programs.

To apply for federal assistance:

• Apply online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service, or other communication services, please provide FEMA the specific number assigned for that service. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To locate the closest center to you, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or text 43362 and type DRC (your ZIP Code); for example, DRC 12345.

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