NJ Residents Displaced By Sandy Can Use FEMA Funds For Rental Security Deposits

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — New Jersey residents displaced by Superstorm Sandy can now use Federal Emergency Management Agency funds to pay for security deposits when renting apartments or homes.

Officials say the policy change announced Tuesday will especially benefit low- to moderate-income families who have been in motels and hotels since the storm hit in late October and can't afford security deposits.

FEMA usually provides two months of rent to households that have been displaced due to storms, but all households that receive FEMA rental assistance can seek additional funding. They must provide their lease and all receipts for rent and security deposits.

FEMA cannot reimburse households that have already paid a security deposit with their own money. And FEMA rent money can't be used to pay for utilities, telephone or television service.

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