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Georgia storm victims can access FEMA support for home repairs and property losses despite having insurance

Georgia – State and FEMA authorities are urging Georgia homeowners not to wait to apply for federal disaster assistance, even if they have homeowner’s insurance, in the wake of the destruction caused by Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene. Officials underline the need of starting the procedure quickly to enable recovery and guarantee that all possible help sources are explored.

Regardless of their insurance status, any affected individual can get FEMA help. Designed to augment insurance coverage for individuals who have it, it covers some costs not covered by insurance including personal property losses, basic house repairs, and other disaster-related expenses. Insurance-owning residents should seek FEMA assistance in order to po0tentially get further help for losses not covered by their policy.

State and FEMA authorities are urging Georgia homeowners not to wait to apply for federal disaster assistance, even if they have homeowner's insurance
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Residents should be aware that applying for FEMA help does not need prior filing of an insurance claim. Before they can provide some kinds of aid, though, FEMA will require proof of the insurance settlement or a denial of the claim. This documentation is crucial in determining what additional aid can be provided.

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Those who are concerned about possible rising insurance rates following a claim can talk to their insurance agent about it. Understanding the deductible and out-of-pocket costs can help determine whether filing a claim is financially beneficial, especially if the damage might be less than the policy deductible or not covered at all.

Should insurance payments be delayed, FEMA can provide temporary aid to meet immediate needs, therefore ensuring that households do not suffer unnecessary hardship while they wait for insurance claims to be handled. Residents also receive free Disaster Legal Assistance should the insurance settlement fall short in fully covering the damages. For people unable to pay a lawyer, this service offers free, private representation to help them appeal insurance claims to get a fair settlement.

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Those living in the 63 counties assigned for Individual Assistance are qualified to seek FEMA disaster aid. Applications can be filed daily by contacting the toll-free number 800-621-3362, or online via the FEMA mobile app. Multiple language assistance is provided to suit every resident. In order further assist with the application process, the Georgia Call Center is open Monday through Saturday at 678-547-2861.

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An easily available online accessible video tutorial offers step-by-step directions on navigating the application procedure for people need direction on how to apply. This tool is meant to simplify the procedure so that every impacted resident may get the required assistance free from needless difficulties.

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