Florida’s My Safe Florida Home Program Faces Changes: What You Need to Know

Title: Florida’s My Safe Florida Home Program Faces Changes in Funding and Eligibility

The popular My Safe Florida Home program in Florida is set to resume taking applications on July 1, but with significant changes that may impact many households seeking grants for home improvements. The program, which previously awarded nearly $400 million on a first-come, first-served basis, will now prioritize low- and moderate-income households for grants of up to $10,000.

The new funding model, if approved by the legislative session, will allocate $100 million for the program, allowing for 10,000 applicants to receive the maximum grant amount. Eligibility criteria have also been updated, with specific guidelines for low- and moderate-income households based on income levels in their respective areas.

While the program aims to assist those who need it most, determining eligibility under the new income definitions may be challenging for some homeowners. The Department of Financial Services plans to use a federal database to confirm income levels, but the calculations involve various cost-adjustment factors that could impact qualification.

Despite the complexity of the income requirements, lawmakers are hopeful that the changes will increase participation among low- and moderate-income residents. The program has already helped thousands of homeowners save on insurance premiums by making home improvements, and officials believe that expanding access to grants will benefit more households in the long run.

As the program prepares to reopen for applications, homeowners are encouraged to visit the My Safe Florida Home website for more information on eligibility and how to apply. With the potential for significant savings on insurance costs and improved home resilience, the program remains a valuable resource for Florida residents looking to protect their homes from natural disasters.

Overall, the changes to the My Safe Florida Home program signal a shift towards prioritizing assistance for those in need, ensuring that more households can benefit from the grants and make their homes safer and more resilient in the face of future challenges.