FEMA Extends Disaster Aid Application Deadline

Superstorm survivors looking for federal financial help just got extra time to apply. The Federal Emergency Management Agency, prodded by New Jersey officials, extended the application window to March 1, 2013.

FEMA estimates that nearly 58,000 applicants so far have been approved for assistance in paying rent, rebuilding expenses, personal property loss, and other factors outside insurance coverage.

Registration also serves as the doorway from FEMA to related aid agencies including the American Red Cross, U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Salvation Army.

The SBA also set March 1 as its final day to accept disaster loan applications from home and business owners and renters.

Application forms are available at http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov., or via smartphone or tablet at m.fema.gov. Phone banks operate seven days a week, 7 AM to 1 AM, at 800-621-3362, TTY 800-462-7585 and 711 / VRS.