COLUMBIA, S.C. — Following Helene's damage to the state, Richland County residents are now eligible to apply for FEMA disaster individual assistance.
FEMA announced that Richland and Abbeville counties are the latest to get approval for household help. Previous these counties were authorized: Aiken, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Cherokee, Edgefield, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, Lexington, Newberry, Oconee, Pickens, Saluda, Spartanburg and Union counties.
This means homeowners and renters in Richland County who had uninsured damage or losses can start applying. FEMA said it might be able to help with serious needs, such as displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss, or other disaster-caused needs.
“We appreciate the collaboration between our local, state and federal partners to support the residents of Richland County and the communities we serve,” said Richland County Administrator Leonardo Brown. “Our teams have been and will continue to work diligently to assist our residents who have suffered damage and loss because of Hurricane Helene. We appreciate everyone’s efforts and the collaboration throughout this process.”
FEMA said the quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. People can also apply using the FEMA app for mobile devices or call toll-free at 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open daily, and help is available in most languages. Give FEMA your number if you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or another service. People can view an accessible video on how to apply on FEMA's YouTube page.
What to know when you apply for FEMA assistance
- A current phone number where you can be contacted.
- Your address at the time of the disaster and where you are now staying.
- Your Social Security number.
- A general list of damage and losses.
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.
FEMA said that someone with homeowners', renters’ or flood insurance should file a claim as soon as possible. They add that they cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If someone's policy does not cover all disaster expenses, that person may be eligible for federal assistance.