Important update about FEMA Temporary Shelter Assistance (Hotel)

Important update about FEMA Temporary Shelter Assistance (Hotel)

Over the past week, FEMA has sent letters to residents receiving Temporary Shelter Assistance saying that they will have to check out of the hotel FEMA has paid for. If you think this is in error, you can submit more information and file an appeal and you may get an extension. FEMA sent out the letters based on one of the following circumstances in the individual assistance application:

• a duplicate record;
• they are receiving assistance via another registration;
• their home is safe to occupy;
• they reported no damages;
• their home insurance covers additional living expenses;
• they missed an inspection appointment;
• they are living somewhere other than a hotel, shelter, car, place of employment, house of worship, tent, damaged dwelling, or with friends/family;
• they refused direct housing;
• they obtained temporary or long-term housing;
• they are not complying with TSA terms and conditions;
• they have not checked into TSA within 30 days;
• or their application was voluntarily withdrawn.

Additionally, FEMA has committed to allowing all Direct Housing-approved households currently checked in to TSA to remain eligible until they are able to be licensed into their Direct Housing unit.

If you received a letter for one of the above reasons but you feel that it was a mistake, you will need to submit evidence to FEMA to prove it by filing an appeal. You can update your application and file an appeal online at DisasterAssistance.gov, call (800) 621-3362 or get in-person help by visiting the Disaster Recovery Center at the Enoch D. Davis Center at 1111 18th Ave. S., St. Petersburg, Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Jan. 31, 2025.