NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Disaster unemployment benefits and free legal assistance are two programs offered by FEMA and partners to assist disaster survivors with losses from storms in Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties from March 25 through April 3, 2021.
Federally supported disaster unemployment insurance is available for those who lost work due to the storms and who are not eligible for regular state unemployment benefits. This enables those who are self-employed to recover more quickly from their disaster losses. Workers whose employment was impacted by storms in Davidson, Williamson, and Wilson counties can apply online for DUA through www.Jobs4TN.gov. They can also call 1-877-813-0950 to apply by phone.
Residents with legal issues as a result of the storms may call 1-844-HELP4TN (1-844-435-7486). Callers may get information about contracts for repair or rebuilding, landlord/tenant issues, replacement of documents and other disaster-related questions. Callers should leave a voicemail message at the hotline and an attorney will return the call.
Attorneys are also available to answer questions online at https://tn.freelegalanswers.org/. Additionally, survivors can access information about their rights and resources, including links to upcoming legal clinics, FEMA information, and local resources at https://www.help4tn.org/. Disaster legal services are authorized by FEMA in cooperation with the Tennessee Bar Association and the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services.
Survivors in Davidson, Williamson or Wilson counties who have not already done so should apply now for FEMA assistance before the July 7 deadline using one of these three options:
* Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
* Download FEMA’s mobile app for a smartphone or tablet. For more information, go to fema.gov/mobile-app.
* Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available, and lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.
For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4601. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.
Source: Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency