Resources and Training
The Public Assistance (PA) Program requires applicants to meet specific federal and state requirements, maintain accurate documentation, and follow eligibility rules throughout the project lifecycle. This page provides a centralized location for the most important forms, policy documents, FEMA job aids, and other reference materials used to support the Public Assistance process in Tennessee. Applicants should refer to these resources often to ensure compliance and successful project management.
Applicant and Vendor Forms
These forms are required for applicants to register with TEMA ad to receive reimbursements from the state of Tennesse.
- Applicant Registration Form: Used to establish the applicant in the Public Assistance system. This form must be completed before a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) can be submitted.
- Supplier Registration: Applicants who are not already registered as state vendors must create a supplier account. Applicants will need to include an updated W-9. This documentation is necessary for processing payments.
- Supplier/Direct Depost Authorization Form: Required to set up or update vendor information with the State of Tennessee so reimbursement payments can be issued.
- Title VI Compliance Form: All applicants receiving federal or state-administered federal funds must complete Tennessee's Title VI compliance docmentation. This form ensures that organizations receiving funds agree to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This form must be submitted along with the Title VI Memorandum to TitleVISurvey.Military@tn.gov.
- Title VI Memorandum: Applicants must also review and sign the Title VI Memorandum, acknowledging their responsibility to prevent discrimination in programs or activities receiving federal assistance. This memorandum must be submitted along with the Title VI Compliance form to TitleVISurvey.Military@tn.gov.
Documentation Templates
To support accurate and organized submissions, FEMA has documents and templates webpage to help applicants apply for Public Assistance.
Commonly used documents and templates include:
- Force Account Labor Timesheet
- Force Account Equipment Log
- Force Account Materials Tracking Sheet
- Procurement Rules
Guidance for Private Nonprofits and Houses of Worship
Private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, must submit additional documentation to demonstrate eligibility for Public Assistance. For more information, including an overview of eligibility and the application process, review FEMA's PA Fact Sheet on private nonprofit organizations.
- Edison Supplier Portal Registration User Manual
- RPA Checklist
FEMA provides a wide range of reference materials that help clarify eligibility criteria, documentation standards, environmental requirements, procurement riles, and project development procedures.
Recommended links include:
- Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide (PAPPG): FEMA's main policy document outlining PA rules and requirements.
- FEMA Public Assistance Job Aids, Fact Sheets and FAQs: Contains all job aids, such as procurement guidance, equipment and labor documentation, and direct administrative costs, fact sheets, policy documents, and guidance tools.
- FEMA Public Assistance Resource Library: contains general program and disaster-specific guidance that focuses on restoring public infrastructure for communities affected by major disasters or emergencies.
- FEMA Environmental and Historic Preservation Resources: Guidance on required environmental compliance and documentation.
- FEMA Public Assistance YouTube Channel
Other Federal Resources
The FEMA Grants Portal is where applicants will:
- Submit the Request for Public Assistance (RPA)
- Upload documentation
- Track project progress
- Respond to Requests for Information (RFIs)
- Manage closeout documentation
Helpful resources include: