Navigating the FEMA Process for Businesses
Understanding Business Eligibility
- Your business must be located in a declared disaster zone.
- You must show that your business has been physically or economically affected by the disaster.
Gather Required Documents
- Business tax returns (at least three years)
- Profit and loss statements
- Balance sheets
- Lease agreements or mortgage details for business property
- Business licenses and permits
- Insurance information
- Bank account details for direct deposit
Apply for FEMA Assistance
While businesses primarily receive help through the Small Business Administration (SBA), start the process with FEMA:
- Online: www.DisasterAssistance.gov
- Phone: 1-800-621-3362
- In-Person: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) (announcements will be made)
Assistance/funding is also available for hotel accommodation.
Complete the SBA Loan Application
The SBA offers low-interest disaster loans for businesses. Even if you don’t want a loan, completing the application is essential to determining further FEMA eligibility.
Types of SBA Loans:
- Physical Disaster Loans: For repairs to real estate, machinery, equipment, inventory, etc.
- Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): For working capital to help small businesses recover from financial losses caused by the disaster.
FEMA Inspection for Businesses
FEMA or SBA may inspect your business property to verify damage. Be available to provide access and any required documentation.
Track Your Application
Monitor your FEMA and SBA application status online or via phone.
Use FEMA and SBA Funds
SBA loans and FEMA grants should be used for:
- Repairing or replacing business property, inventory, or equipment
- Addressing financial losses
Ensure you keep detailed records, as FEMA or SBA may audit the use of funds.
Explore Other Forms of Assistance
- Disaster Unemployment Assistance: For affected employees
- Crisis Counseling Services
The SBA also offers Mitigation Assistance, which provides additional funds to improve your business and reduce future disaster risks.
Appealing FEMA or SBA Decisions
If you receive a denial or an insufficient amount of assistance from FEMA or the SBA, you have 60 days to appeal. Be sure to include all supporting documents, such as additional proof of damage or financial loss.
RESOURCE CENTERS: The chamber is opening tomorrow morning in partnership with Duke Energy and Economic Development in the following locations:
6990 Gulf Boulevard - St. Pete Beach (8 am - 5pm)
300 Municipal Drive - Madeira Beach (8 am - 5 pm)
North Beaches is being confirmed
We will be assisting anyone who is in need with assessment surveys, answering questions, and collecting the needs of our community so we can continue to provide what you need.
NOTICE: Work with your insurance agents. DO NOT sign anything with anyone who may walk and state that they are officially helping you unless they have PROPER Identification. Be clear when reviewing what company or agency they are with. Some people will "appear" officially. Please verify and do not sign anything until you know for certain who they are.
DEBRIS: It is IMPERATIVE that you separate your DEBRIS. Electronics are separate.
ST PETE BEACH: Horan Park "Comfort" station; water, shower, restrooms, etc...
Donations can be brought to 6990 Gulf Boulevard and to St Pete Beach.
Debris at curbside for collection.
TREASURE ISLAND: The debris collection is at the curbside. (More information to follow). Comfort station at TI Park with water, etc...
MADEIRA BEACH: There is a "comfort station" at City Hall (charging stations, cooling etc..)
Donations can be accepted here.
NORTH BEACHES (To Indian Rocks Beach) Debris collection will be at curbside (more information to follow) Majority No Power. (More information to follow
DAMAGE ASSESSMENT SURVEY: It is imperative you complete this survey
BusinessDamageAssessmentsSurve