How to Get Federal Assistance for a Storm Shelter

Many of us live in an area where storms and even tornadoes can be dangerous. If storms are a concern, consider purchasing a storm shelter. Many individuals and families who are in high-risk areas can get federal assistance for a storm shelter.

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. Search for federal assistance programs for a storm shelter. FEMA offers several federal assistance programs to assist applicants in need of a storm shelter or safe room, including Small Business Administration disaster loans, community development block grants, hazard mitigation grants programs and pre-disaster programs. Review each program carefully, as some of the program funds require you match the grant amount.

2. Make sure you qualify for financial assistance by reviewing the program information. Guidelines change annually, so it is important to review the data carefully. Take note that FEMA may change grant programs throughout the year based on high-risk areas and areas that have been declared disaster zones.

3. Choose the storm shelter funding opportunity for which you want to apply and print off all of the necessary documentation. Make that you choose a program that will work well for your financial situation. For instance, some of the programs involve a partial or full loan, while others are grants that do not need to be repaid.

4. Compare the type of storm shelter before you choose the one in which you want to invest.

5. Apply for a FEMA registration identification number by calling the FEMA Registration ID line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The speech or hearing impaired may call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. This identification number will be required when you submit your request.

6. Prepare the application for assistance. Many federal programs have an application that you need to complete online or send in via mail. It is important to have the contact name of the applicant, information about the deed, lease or mortgage information, insurance information and financial documentation when you apply for disaster mitigation assistance.

Tips & Warnings

• Ensure the company you choose to install the storm shelter has a solid reputation and credentials. Look for a company that has a good record with the Better Business Bureau.

• The storm shelter industry does not have any construction regulations, nor do they certify manufactured shelters.

References

• www.fema.gov : FEMA on Safe Room Grants
• www.sba.gov : Small Business Administration on Disaster Assistance
• www.bbb.org : Better Business Bureau Consumer Research