Connecting you to the help you need

Storm

Knowing where to turn when disaster strikes is critical to resuming regular operation. The Ohio Society of CPAs has assembled a variety of resources and links to guide your efforts in serving as a trusted business adviser to your clients and in determining next steps if you become a victim of an unexpected calamity.

State Disaster Relief Program

This handbook outlines the state-level resources and financial assistance available to local governments and eligible non-profit organizations through the Ohio Emergency Management Agency.

Get the Handbook
Federal Disaster Assistance Resources

Connect with Small Business Administration resources, local emergency management agencies, emergency shelters, and other helpful information.

Access the Resources
IRS Tax Relief for Disaster Victims

Get information regarding administrative disaster tax relief and special tax law provisions.

Access the Resources


Recent State of Ohio
Emergency Declarations


June 24, 2024—Disaster tax relief: What taxpayers need to know

June 6, 2024—IRS: Many payments to individuals affected by East Palestine train disaster are tax-free; new guidance could help those in Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia

May 16, 2024—IRS announces tax relief for taxpayers impacted by tornadoes in Ohio; various deadlines postponed to Sept. 3, 2024

 

May 2, 2024—President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Ohio and ordered Federal assistance to supplement state and local recover efforts in the areas affected by tornadoes on March 14, 2024. 

The president's action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in the following counties:

 

  • Auglaize
  • Crawford
  • Darke
  • Delaware
  • Hancock
  • Licking
  • Logan
  • Mercer
  • Miami
  • Richland
  • Union

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Mr. Toney L. Raines of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

May 2024—For more information on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit Ready Ohio.

March 2024—Governor Mike DeWine declared a State of Emergency for 11 Ohio counties affected by the March 14, 2024 tornadoes and other severe weather:
  • Auglaize
  • Crawford
  • Darke
  • Delaware
  • Hancock
  • Licking
  • Logan
  • Mercer
  • Miam
  • Richland
  • Union

As part of the declaration, all relevant state departments and agencies will lend services, equipment, supplies and personnel. In addition to the Ohio EMA, ODH, OSHP, and ODOT, that includes the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS), Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), and Ohio Department of Administrative Services (DAS).


 

The CPA's Guide to Providing Disaster Assistance

Natural disasters are occurring more frequently and CPAs are having to deal with a wide range of personal, business, and client challenges that result from such emergencies. Schreiber & Schreiber Certified Public Accountants has compiled information to assist CPAs in navigating these challenges.

 

Get the Guide
CPA Practice Advisor Guide

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Guide

Unexpected disruptions can pose severe threats to an organization's operations. CPAs are often called upon to help businesses prepare for unforeseen challenges. This guide offers practical tips to address business continuity in the face of natural disasters.

Access the Guide

Important Phone Numbers & Emails

  • Ohio Auditor of State - for guidance on disaster-related governmental audit issues and emergency assistance requests by governmental entities: [email protected]
  • FEMA Helpline: 800.621.3362
  • Ohio Department of Insurance: 800.686.1526
  • American Red Cross Hero Care Center: 1.877.272.7337

Tips for Filing an Insurance Claim

  • Immediately document your losses before removing debris. Take photos and videos.

  • Call your agent or insurance company and initiate a claim filing. Incorrect or incomplete information will delay the process.

  • Gather the necessary paperwork and receipts to provide to your insurer. Consider everything before claim submission, and back it up with written estimates.

  • Consider making temporary repairs but don't endanger yourself.

  • If required to seek temporary housing, check your policy for "loss of use" coverage.

  • Keep copies of all correspondence.

Ohioans with insurance questions and concerns can reach the Ohio Department of Insurance at 800.686.1526, via email at [email protected], or on our website at https://insurance.ohio.gov/consumers.