If you are self-employed, FEMA may be able to provide funds to repair or replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment required for your work. This help is available to a wide range of applicants, including farmers, artists, musicians, mechanics and many other occupations. FEMA may also be able to help if you are an employee and you lost tools or equipment required for your job and not reimbursable by your employer.
Eligible Work Tools
Tools and equipment required for self-employment or required, but not provided, by an employer. Examples of tools include:
- Computers required by an employer or for self-employment when you are responsible for the replacement of the computer.
- Tools and equipment such as power tools, art materials, musical instruments, tractors, utility vehicles, lawnmowers, ladders, etc.
- Uniforms required for work when you are responsible for replacement of the uniforms.
This assistance may be available if the items were damaged by the New Mexico South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding that began June 17, and you do not have another working item that can meet this need and the loss of the item was not covered by insurance.
Required Documentation
To be eligible for self-employment assistance, you must provide documentation that proves you’re self-employed, such as federal tax return documents, and must meet the eligibility criteria for FEMA assistance.
Self-employed New Mexico residents should provide FEMA with:
- Insurance documents for all potential coverages and benefits
- Itemized receipts or estimates for repairing or replacing the requested items
- A written statement that explains the items are needed for self-employment
To find out if you are eligible, apply to FEMA.
Four Ways to Apply to FEMA
New Mexico residents can apply to FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by downloading the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. MT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance -YouTube.
Residents can also apply in person at a Disaster Recovery Center. Use the Disaster Recovery Center Locator at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator to find the centers closest to you. No appointment needed.