FEMA Fact Sheet: How You Can Use Other Needs Assistance to Fix or Replace a Car

WASHINGTON, Nov. 2 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency issued the following fact sheet:

FEMA repair of a storm-damaged vehicle is determined under the Other Needs Assistance program of Individual Assistance. Repairs with a minimum amount of $250 and a maximum of $4,000 may be authorized with receipts. If the vehicle is replaced, up to $4,000 is available with documentation.

* Damaged vehicle must be owned by applicant or co-applicant (valid registration proves ownership).

* Vehicle must have been registered with the state at the time of the disaster.

* Vehicle must meet minimum state requirements for liability insurance.

* Applicant must not also own an undamaged vehicle, unless a demonstrated need for two vehicles is shown. (Separate transportation required for work, medical, school or other essential purposes).

* If applicant is referred to Small Business Administration (SBA), applicant must apply to SBA.

* Verification that vehicle sustained damage due to Hurricane Michael in one of the designated counties.

If a damaged vehicle is not included in a housing inspection, the following items must be submitted to determine if the owner is eligible for FEMA help to repair or replace the vehicle:

* Copy of registration valid at the time of the disaster.

* List of all vehicles owned and a brief description of damage caused by the disaster.

* Verification of vehicle repair costs by a mechanic, receipt or estimate. This documentation must contain a mechanic's statement that damage was a result of the disaster.

* Name of mechanic, company name, address and telephone number.

* Vehicle insurance policy stating coverage.

* Insurance settlement or statement.

* Statement describing why the vehicle is necessary for household's transportation needs.

Documentation may be submitted at any disaster recovery center, online at FEMA.gov, or by mail to FEMA - Individuals & Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 1005, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055, or by FAX at 800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA Individuals & Households Program. Be sure to write your FEMA registration number and the disaster number (DR-4399) on all the pages.