FEMA ASSISTANCE
Governor Scott’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration was approved by the Biden Administration., This means financial assistance will be available for homeowners and individuals who are eligible and live in the following counties:
Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham, and Windsor Counties.
Other counties that were impacted are still being assessed by FEMA.
The assistance that will be available will be situation-dependent. The types of assistance includes:
Likely not to compensate for the entirety of losses, this federal assistance is not a substitute for private insurance.
Call FEMA to get started and to see what assistance you may qualify for at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), visit DisasterAssistance.gov, or download the FEMA App. Relay service users should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
*Vermonters have up to 60 days from July 14, to register with FEMA for Individual Assistance.*
FEMA is expected to set up Disaster Recovery Centers in hard-hit communities to offer in-person support.
REPORTING DAMAGE
- Vermonters should continue to take as many photos/videos of damage as possible before and during clean up. Keep track of all expenses incurred during the process and save receipts.
- Report damage to Vermont 211: You can dial 2-1-1 or by visit vermont211.org. This will help the state and FEMA better understand the extent of the damage.
IRS RELIEF
Victims of flooding in Vermont that began on July 7, 2023, now have until Nov. 15, 2023, to file various individual and business tax returns and make tax payments, the Internal Revenue Service announced. Following the disaster declaration issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, individuals and households affected by flooding that reside or have a business anywhere in Vermont qualify for tax relief: IRS RELIEF FOR VT
RED CROSS
Have you been affected by the recent flooding and need help? Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)or visit a Red Cross shelter. For a list of locations, call the number above or visit Red Cross Shelters
INSURANCE
Most standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover floods. Vermonters should notify an insurer as soon as possible of any loss and understand the requirements/time limits for filing a claim, document all damage, pay premiums on time, and take all reasonable steps to protect the property and mitigate the damage after the disaster. Homeowners should check their specific policy and contact their insurance company for full details. If you have concerns with your insurance company’s determination, please contact the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation.
According to Vermont insurance officials, most insurance claims for this disaster will be filed under flood insurance and car insurance, not homeowner’s insurance. Like homeowner’s insurance, Vermonters with car insurance or flood insurance should contact their insurance company as soon as possible to discuss coverage details and report damage.
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
The SBA offers disaster assistance in the form of low interest loans to businesses, nonprofit organizations, homeowners, and renters located in regions affected by declared disasters. Apply for assistance here.
Many Vermonters are going through a traumatic period. If you or someone you know is having a hard time with the emotional impact of this crisis, you can call or text the National Disaster Stress Hotline, 1-800-985-5990, or 9-8-8.
More resources can be found through the State of Vermont's flooding website as well.
I’ll continue to coordinate on all this work with Senator Sanders and Senator Welch. My office is here to help you navigate federal government agencies in the weeks, months, and years ahead. You can follow me on social media @RepBeccaB for continued updates and resources. Or you can reach my office by calling 802-652-2450 or filling out this form.
