How renters impacted by deadly Tennessee tornadoes can get financial help

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Renters in Davidson, Putnam and Wilson counties whose homes were damaged or destroyed by the deadly tornadoes that struck Middle Tennessee on March 3 can apply for FEMA assistance.

FEMA says their Individual Assistance program is available to renters, including students, as well as homeowners, that need help paying for temporary housing. FEMA's initial rental grant is currently for a 60-day period, but can be reviewed for more time.

Some renters may also qualify for a grant under FEMA's Other Needs Assistance program for personal property or other disaster-related expenses that may include:

• Replacement or repair of necessary personal property, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, text books or school supplies
• Replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment required by the self-employed
• Primary vehicles
• Medical and dental bills

A deadline to register for federal aid has been set for May 4.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is also offering disaster loans to help Tennessee renters repair or replace disaster-damaged personal property, including vehicles. Loan rates are as low as 1.563 percent, terms can be as long as 30 years, and survivors may be eligible for up to $40,000, depending on their losses, according to FEMA. For more information on the loan application process, visit this link.

• Tornado survivors in Davidson, Putnam and Wilson counties can register with FEMA in the following ways:
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download the FEMA App
• Call 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available. The toll-free numbers are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. local time, seven days a week.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (to locate the nearest center, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster-recovery-centers.