FEMA offers assistance for self-employed following Debby, Helene and Milton

As another hurricane season draws to a close, countless Floridians are still dealing with the aftermath of the hurricanes that carved paths across the state.

To help relieve some of the burden, FEMA assistance is available for self-employed Floridians – including musicians, artists, mechanics and independent contractors – who reside or work in counties designated for FEMA Individual Assistance and suffered damages or losses from hurricanes Milton, Helene or Debby.

Through this FEMA assistance, self-employed individuals can get help replacing tools or equipment not provided by employers that are necessary to maintain employment. Eligible tools may include uniforms, computers, art materials, musical instruments, tractors, utility vehicles, lawnmowers, ladders or power tools.

Inspections will be required to review the damage sustained by these items. Reimbursement may be available if individuals do not have a secondary, working tool or piece of equipment, eligible items were damaged by these disasters and the losses were not covered by insurance.

To qualify for self-employed FEMA assistance, individuals must provide documentation proving self-employment (i.e. a tax return), insurance documents for all potential benefits and coverages, itemized estimates or receipts documenting the repair or replacement of damaged items and a written statement detailing why the items are necessary for self-employment.

Individuals who applied for FEMA assistance following Hurricanes Debby or Helene will have to submit a new application for any damage from Hurricane Milton with the dates of the most recent damage. Applications can be submitted online at www.disasterassistance.gov, through the FEMA app or by calling 800-621-3362.