The deadline for residents in 13 counties damaged by Superstorm Sandy—including Putnam, Rockland and Westchester—to register for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency has been extended to March 29, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced this morning. The previous deadline was tomorrow.
FEMA assistance for individuals and families can include funds for rental assistance, essential home repair, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs that aren’t covered by insurance, the governor said. The other counties are the five boroughs of New York City, Nassau, Suffolk, Orange, Sullivan and Ulster.
“It is clear that many New Yorkers impacted by Hurricane Sandy are still in need and must have access to disaster assistance and resources to help them get back on their feet,” Como said in a statement. “This extension from FEMA will provide impacted residents with more time to get help so they can rebuild as soon as possible.”
Individuals can register online for FEMA disaster assistance, or via smartphone or tablet. Applicants can call 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585. For 7-1-1 relay or video services can call 800-621-3362. The toll-free phone numbers operate from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m daily until further notice.
The state has also requested a 30-day extension for individuals and businesses to apply to the Small Business Administration for low-interest loans. The SBA disaster phone number is 800-659-2955, and 800-877-8339 TTY. Applicants can get assistance by sending an email or visiting the website. They can fill out an application online.
FEMA and Small Business Administration representatives are available to answer questions at each disaster recovery center. You can also text “DRC” and your ZIP code to 43362 (4FEMA) or call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
