The Maui wildfire has left a trail of destruction, affecting businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners, and renters. Both the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are up to provide crucial support through disaster assistance and low-interest disaster loans. If you find yourself grappling with the aftermath of the Maui wildfire, here's how you can seek assistance.

FEMA Disaster Assistance:

To initiate the process of FEMA disaster assistance, individuals are required to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. This can be done by calling FEMA directly at 1-800-621-3362 or by visiting the official DisasterAssistance.gov website. A unique registration number will be provided upon successful registration, acting as a reference throughout the application process.

For those seeking a swift and convenient method, visit DisasterAssistance.gov. Alternatively, the FEMA mobile app or the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 are also available avenues for application.

It's essential to connect with your insurance company promptly to file a claim if you possess insurance coverage. While FEMA assistance can be applied for simultaneously, disbursement of funds will only occur after your insurance settlement or denial. In cases where insurance coverage falls short or experiences delays, FEMA assistance may address your unmet needs.

FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance has now been activated for Maui wildfire survivors allowing for free short-term, emergency lodging options in participating hotels, private homes and vacation rentals. FEMA has also started a one-time payment of $700 per affected household to help with critical needs.

SBA Disaster Loans:

Certain losses to businesses and nonprofits are not covered by FEMA. The U.S. Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans to businesses, nonprofits, homeowners, and renters located in disaster-affected regions. These loans are instrumental in aiding recovery efforts and alleviating disaster losses.

If your household's annual gross income and number of dependents meet SBA's criteria, FEMA will automatically refer you to the SBA for loan consideration. If you are referred to the SBA, you must complete an SBA disaster loan application on the SBA website or at a Disaster Recovery Center (after one is set up on Maui).  The online application is the fastest method to receive a decision about your loan eligibility.

The following information is required to complete the SBA online application:
·       Contact information for all applicants
·       Social security numbers for all applicants
·       FEMA registration number
·       Deed or lease information
·       Insurance information
·       Financial information (e.g. income, account balances and monthly expenses)
·       Employer Identification Number (EIN) for business applicants

In instances where the SBA's loan offer is insufficient, the organization informs FEMA. This triggers a reevaluation of your application for possible additional disaster assistance, including Personal Property Assistance, Transportation Assistance, and the Group Flood Insurance Policy (GFIP).

See SBA Disaster Loan Fact Sheets:

• For Businesses and Nonprofits:  SBA Disaster Loan Assistance
• For Homeowners and Renters:  SBA Disaster Loan Assistance Fact Sheet

For more relief resources, visit the Maui Aloha Resource Page.