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FEMA Claims and Appeals

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) is a government-funded agency that provides public assistance to help communities respond to and recover from disasters. Assistance from FEMA may come in many different forms, such as temporary housing and rental assistance, emergency home repairs, money for personal property losses, payment for flood…

Financial Matters

Disaster Relief

Financial Matters

Debt & Creditors | Disaster Relief | Public Benefits | Starting a Business

Florida Lemon Law (Car Purchase Protection)

Buying a new car is a huge financial commitment and it should never have to feel like a gamble. Consumers reasonably expect a certain level of quality and reliability from a new vehicle, and the effects of purchasing something that immediately breaks down are far greater than simple buyer’s remorse.…

Financial Matters

Debt & Creditors

Food Assistance (SNAP)

In Florida, there are two types of food assistance programs administered by the Department of Children and Families (DCF) — the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, also known as “food stamps”) and SUNCAP. These programs are designed to provide low-income Floridians the opportunity to purchase healthy food. If you are…

Financial Matters

Public Benefits

Homeowners Insurance after Disaster

If your property was affected by a natural disaster and you had a home and/or flood insurance policy, you may file an insurance claim to determine whether you have coverage for your damages. Community Legal Services can help you file a claim and explain the insurance coverage options that are…

Financial Matters

Disaster Relief

Landlords in Foreclosure

Your Landlord is Facing Foreclosure If the person who owns the home that you are renting does not make their mortgage loan payments, they may end up in foreclosure — a lawsuit where their lender attempts to have the court sell off the property to pay off the loan. This…

Family & Personal

Housing

Financial Matters

Debt & Creditors

Mortgage Forbearance & Homebuyers Education

Don’t miss the opportunity of becoming a HOMEOWNER. Is homeownership for me? How do I stick with a budget and maintain my credit scores? What is the role of a realtor and a home inspector? How do I qualify for a loan? What is a home sale “Closing?” Being well-informed…

Financial Matters

Debt & Creditors

Mortgage Foreclosures

People who take out a loan to purchase a home in Florida typically sign a promissory note and a mortgage. A promissory note is a document containing the borrower’s promise to repay the loan, as well as the terms for repayment. The mortgage creates a security interest in the property.…

Family & Personal

Housing

Financial Matters

Debt & Creditors

Mortgage Hardship after Disaster

When homeowners struggle to make their mortgage payments, there are options to consider. Fortunately, most mortgage loans (three out of five) made in the United States are government-sponsored or government-insured, and, as a result, the rules governing how homeowners with these mortgages will be treated after disasters or set-backs are…

Financial Matters

Debt & Creditors | Disaster Relief

Paycheck Garnishment

In Florida, creditors (people or companies that you owe) are permitted to take, seize, or “garnish” your wages to pay debts that you owe. If a creditor sues you and wins to recover the remainder of your debt, they will obtain a “Final Judgment” against you. It is important to…

Financial Matters

Debt & Creditors