LOS ANGELES (CNS) - The Federal Emergency Management Agency today announced an extension of the deadline for Los Angeles County residents who lost their home or sustained other losses due to the Bobcat Fire to apply for aid.
FEMA's financial support deadline has been extended to Dec. 16 for those impacted by the Bobcat fire, as well as the recent Creek, El Dorado, Glass, Oak, Slater, Valley and Zogg wildfires in California. Eligible wildfire victims can receive financial support to help pay for rent, home repairs, medical costs, funeral expenses and other disaster-related expenses.
A report of fire damage to a home or other personal property is necessary in order for an application to be processed, according to FEMA officials.
"You may not have been able to make a report because you were or still are under an evacuation order. When permitted to return home, speed up the decision about a recovery grant by providing your damage report to FEMA as quickly as possible," the agency recommended.
"Some survivors may have received letters from FEMA stating that the agency cannot refer them to its Individuals and Households Program. This does not mean a denial, but that FEMA cannot move your application forward until you report your damage," according to the agency, which recommended that all evacuated residents keep in touch with FEMA throughout the application process and update the agency with changes to personal addresses and other contact information.
"As your situation or location changes, please keep FEMA informed," the agency advised.
To apply, visit www.disasterassistance.gov or download the FEMA mobile application. The FEMA helpline is 1-800-621-3362.
When registering for FEMA assistance, be prepared to provide your personal information, including your Social Security number, insurance policy information and a report of the damages or losses suffered.
After you register, you'll be asked to create a personal online disaster assistance account to help you communicate with FEMA. You can use it to update your contact information, see copies of letters from FEMA and upload documents the agency must have to complete your application.