NASHVILLE, Tenn. — People who were impacted by Hurricane Helene in parts of East Tennessee can still apply for federal disaster assistance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency also reminded people Wednesday that applying for help would not impact other federal benefits.
Accepting help from FEMA will not affect anyone's eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program benefits or other federal programs, according to a release from the agency. FEMA also said any assistance people get is not considered taxable income.
Disaster grants from the agency can be used to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs, personal property replacement or other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. Other Needs Assistance can also reimburse homeowners and renters for expenses like medical costs, funeral costs, childcare costs or other expenses.
The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Jan. 7, 2025. People in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington can apply for it either online or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
FEMA also released a video showing how people can apply for assistance. It is available below.
