FEMA Extends Deadline for Sandy Disaster Aid

Victims of Hurricane Sandy in New Jersey now have another month to apply for disaster assistance, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said Thursday. 

New Jersey residents had faced a Jan. 30 deadline, however, FEMA extended the deadline to March 1 at the request of state officials, according to an agency news release. 

The application acts a first step for FEMA programs and a referral for other aid agencies, including the U.S. Small Business Administration, American Red Cross and the Salvation Army.

Officials have also extended the deadline for homeowners, renters and business owners to file SBA disaster loan applications to March 1, FEMA said. 

More than 57,500 Sandy victims have been approved for help through FEMA’s Individual Assistance program in the state, according to officials. 

Residents with storm-related losses all counties can register at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, from a mobile device at m.fema.gov, or by calling 800-621-3362, TTY 800-462-7585 or 711/VRS.

FEMA's toll free line operates from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week. 

For information SBA loans, vist www.sba.gov or call 800-659-2955, TTY 800-877-8339.