FEMA assistance available for vehicle repairs and replacement following Broward County severe weather

Broward County, Florida – Floridians who experienced the effects of the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred in Broward County from April 12 to 14 may qualify for FEMA assistance to repair or replace their damaged vehicles.

FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance (ONA) program offers financial support following a disaster to cover essential expenses and serious needs not met by insurance or other resources. This can include the repair or replacement of a vehicle.

To apply for ONA, you must first submit an application to FEMA (by calling 800-621-3362, visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, or using the FEMA mobile app) and then apply for a disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). If your loan application is denied or does not cover all expenses, you may be referred to FEMA for ONA consideration.

Eligibility for vehicle repair or replacement assistance requires that the damage be directly caused by the disaster and render the vehicle inoperable or unsafe to drive. Cosmetic repairs are not eligible for coverage.

Additional conditions include:

1. The vehicle must have been damaged during the April 12-14 disaster and located in Broward County at the time.
2. Assistance is generally limited to one vehicle per household. If a second functional vehicle exists, the applicant must provide a written certification that the damaged vehicle is essential for daily use.
3. The vehicle must meet state registration and insurance requirements.
4. The vehicle must be owned or leased (not rented) by the applicant, co-applicant, or a household member.
5. The damaged vehicle must be an approved type, such as a car, truck, SUV, or van.

Assistance amounts for repair or replacement depend on the extent of the damage and the state-determined maximum value for repairs and replacements.

Required documentation for consideration may include, but is not limited to:

• Proof of insurance policy or evidence that the vehicle meets the state’s requirements
• A settlement from the insurance provider or a statement confirming that insurance coverage does not exist for vehicle repair
• A verifiable estimate, bill, or receipt indicating that the damage was caused by the disaster, with labor and parts/replacement costs. For vehicle replacement, additional documentation is required from state or local government confirming that the vehicle was salvaged due to the disaster.