[FEMA-DR-4512-VA] Public Assistance
Overview of Public Assistance Program
For the current COVID-19 disaster declaration, the only potentially reimbursable costs are Category B- Emergency Protective Measures that do not qualify under another state or federal grant program. In accordance with section 502 of the Stafford Act, eligible emergency protective measures taken to respond to the COVID-19 emergency at the direction or guidance of public health officials’ may be reimbursed under Category B of the agency’s Public Assistance program. FEMA will not duplicate assistance provided by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or other federal agencies. This includes necessary emergency protective measures for activities taken in response to the COVID-19 incident. Local government and authorities, state agencies, tribal governments, and certain private non-profits organizations are eligible to apply. FEMA reimbursements are available at 75% of the total eligible cost. For Fact Sheets, disaster-specific guidance and other FEMA resources please visit https://www.fema.gov/coronavirus
Getting Started
- Step 1: Track your costs related to COVID-19 back to January 20, 2020.
- Step 2:
- For state, local, and tribal governments Submit your cost estimates in vdem.emgrants.com (see “COVID-19 Cost Recovery Instructions”)
- For private non-profit organizations fill out eligibility screening survey: Downloadable word version template with instructions Download Template (.docx)
- Step 3: Register in the FEMA Grants Portal – https://grantee.fema.gov
- Step 4: Attend Applicant Briefing Download Slides (PDF) | Webinar Audio (External Link)
- Step 5: Submit Request for Public Assistance –https://grantee.fema.gov (Due date TBD)
FEMA Grants Portal Training for Public Assistance (PA) Applicants
Access FEMA Grants Portal Training for Public Assistance (PA) Applicants Here
Post Award Process
Once federal funds have been obligated, sub-recipients will be required to enter into a grant agreement which contains the federal terms and conditions of the awards. Sub-recipients may request reimbursement for COVID-19 grant and vaccination project costs. For more post-award information and a step-by-step walkthrough please see the following resources:
- Step 1: Contact your Regional Grant Administrator
- Step 2: Sign Your Post Award Agreement
- Step 3: Submit a Request for Reimbursement
Eligibility Criteria for Reimbursement and FAQs
Eligible Applicants must have at least $3,300 in eligible costs, be legally responsible for performing the eligible work, and comply with eligible cost requirements. FEMA makes the final determination of eligibility. There is no timeline on FEMA reimbursement.