Thousands of Texans were affected by the winter storm of the week of February 14 and almost a month of the atmospheric phenomenon, many families may be in doubt about how they can receive help.
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“On the part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency We (FEMA) want to support the state. Our hearts go out to all who were affected. Our mission is to be here supporting the state of Texas, the central, local and state governments until all the people can recover ”, said Alberto Pillot, spokesman for the agency.
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STATE FORUM: #UnivisionContigo and FEMA en Español answer your questions about the help available to victims of the winter storm. #ConTexas
Posted by Univision 62 on Thursday, March 11, 2021
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During the state virtual forum that took place across all Univision stations in Texas, Pillot answered the frequent questions of Texans.
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Here we explain the 10 keys to how to receive help:
- People are encouraged to request assistance through the Disaster Assistance page. Pillot explained that through the website people can choose the language and upload the necessary documents without having to wait in phone calls for a representative.
- People must have key documents when requesting assistance. Texans are asked to have the following information on hand:
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are currently staying.
- Your Social Security number, if available.
- A general list of damages and losses.
- If you have insurance, the insurance policy number, and the name of the agent and the insurance company.
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- FEMA only provides assistance for homeowners or renters. Businesses and establishments are not eligible for the assistance, Pillot explained.
- FEMA could help repair damage related to broken pipes, as well as disaster-damaged heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, refrigerators and stoves.
- It can also help if your car was affected by the winter storm. However, families cannot have more than two cars to be eligible, Pillot explained.
- Individuals who incurred lodging expenses may be eligible for reimbursements. They will also be able to have funds to rent alternative housing if the homes were rendered uninhabitable due to the disaster.
- FEMA does not help with electric or other utility bills. Pillot recommended that people contact their service provider to discuss payment plans.
- FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. Applicants must provide claim information to determine eligibility.
- Undocumented people can apply for FEMA assistance using their child’s Social Security or a family member living in the same household.
- FEMA assistance could include financial assistance for temporary housing and home repairs, as well as low-interest loans from the Federal Small Business Agency (SBA). Pillot recommended that Texans ask about the aid that is offered.
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