Debt.com offers critical financial guidance for victims of Hurricanes Helene and Milton
SOURCE Debt.com
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. , Oct. 11, 2024 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, thousands of families and individuals are facing not only physical damage to their homes and property, but also serious financial distress. Debt.com, a leading provider of financial education and debt relief solutions , is stepping up its efforts to help those affected overcome the economic impact of these devastating storms.
“With two powerful hurricanes hitting back-to-back, many people are dealing with unexpected costs, loss of income, and increasing debt,” says Don Silvestri , president of Debt.com. “It’s easy for these financial stresses to spiral out of control if people don’t know where to turn for help. We want to provide resources and guidance to help these families stabilize their finances and avoid long-term hardship.”
Debt.com is offering free resources, financial advice, and expert counseling to storm victims to help them understand their options, rebuild, and recover. The organization has also shared a list of tips on personal finance and government agencies that can help during this difficult time.
Personal financial advice for hurricane victims
- Document all damage and expenses: Keep detailed records of storm damage, repairs, and temporary living expenses. This will be crucial for insurance claims and any potential FEMA assistance.
- Contact your insurance provider first: Call your insurance company to find out what is covered and how to file a claim. Homeowners, renters, and auto insurance policies may have provisions for storm damage.
- Contact us if you can’t pay your bills: Many creditors and utility companies offer temporary payment assistance in times of disaster. Contact your lenders and service providers to ask about deferral options and waived fees.
- Be careful when using credit: If you have to use credit cards to cover emergency expenses, be strategic. Use the card with the lowest interest rate and prioritize paying off those balances as soon as possible.
- Create an emergency budget: If your income has been affected or you’re facing higher expenses, create a temporary budget that prioritizes essentials like housing, food, and healthcare. Cut back on non-essential items until you have a clearer picture of your financial situation.
- Avoid high-cost loans and scams: After natural disasters, scammers often target victims with high-interest loans or fraudulent services. Stick to reputable sources of assistance and avoid payday loans or predatory lending.
- Seek professional advice: If you feel overwhelmed by your financial situation, contact Debt.com for a free consultation. They can help you develop a recovery plan and provide guidance on debt management.
Government resources available for hurricane victims
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
FEMA provides financial assistance for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related expenses. Visit www.disasterassistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) for assistance.
- Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans:
The SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters and businesses to help cover losses not fully covered by insurance. Visit www.sba.gov or call 1-800-659-2955 for more information.
- American Red Cross:
The Red Cross provides emergency shelter, food and financial assistance. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (733-2767).
- Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Disaster Resources:
HUD offers foreclosure relief and other housing assistance for those in disaster areas. Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor at 1-800-569-4287 or visit www.hud.gov.
- State and local emergency management agencies:
Many states and counties have additional resources and recovery programs for disaster victims. Check your state or local emergency management website for specific assistance.
Rebuilding takes time, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Debt.com encourages anyone struggling financially after Hurricanes Helene and Milton to seek help before debt becomes unmanageable. “These storms can have a lasting impact not only on your home, but also on your finances,” Silvestri adds. “By taking the right steps now, you can protect yourself from making hasty financial decisions that could lead to long-term debt.”
For personalized advice or to schedule a free counseling session, visit www.debt.com .
About Debt.com:
Debt.com is a leading provider of financial education and debt relief solutions, helping Americans find a path to financial stability. Through expert guidance, educational resources, and personalized advice, Debt.com empowers people to tackle their debt challenges and build a brighter financial future.
