SoonerSafe Rebate Program for Oklahoma: How it Has Changed, What You Need to Know, and How to Apply

SoonerSafe Rebate Program for Oklahoma

When spring arrives in Oklahoma, tornadoes are as much a part of the changing seasons as blooming flowers and baseball games. You can’t control Mother Nature, but you can take steps to stay safe. That’s where the SoonerSafe Safe Room Rebate Program comes in. This program makes it more affordable to install a storm shelter at your Oklahoma residence. If you’ve ever thought about getting a safe room but hesitated because of the cost, this program might be the perfect opportunity.

What Is the SoonerSafe Rebate Program?

SoonerSafe is a state-run rebate program that provides financial assistance for homeowners looking to install safe rooms. These shelters are designed to withstand severe tornadoes, giving you and your family a secure place to ride out the storm.

The program is a lottery system that reimburses a handful of lucky winners for 75% of the cost, up to $3,000 (a recent increase from $2,000). This “free money” makes it much easier for Oklahoma families to afford a high-quality safe room.

Who Is Eligible for the Safe Room Rebate Program?

Before planning where to put your safe room, make sure you qualify:

• You must own your home and the land it sits on. If you live in a mobile home but don’t own the land, unfortunately, you won’t qualify.
• Your home must be your primary residence. Rental properties and vacation homes aren’t eligible.
• The safe room must meet or exceed FEMA and ICC standards to ensure it can withstand the most extreme wind events.
• The rebate only applies to new safe room installations. If you’ve already installed one, you won’t have a chance to be reimbursed.

2025 Updates to the SoonerSafe Rebate Program

If you’ve applied in the past or were planning to do so in early 2025, please note that the application period has not yet opened. Due to changes under FEMA guidelines, the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is making some adjustments. OEM has assured residents that they’re working hard to open the application period as soon as possible and will post notices on their website and social media pages when it does.

How to Apply for the Oklahoma Safe Room Rebate Program

Once the application period opens, you’ll need to follow these steps to apply:

1. Register online: Visit the OEM website and complete the registration form within the application window. This step puts you in the running for the rebate, but it does not guarantee selection.
2. Wait for selection: Since funds are limited, applicants are chosen twice a year through a random selection process. Once registered, you’re in the lottery for life. You’ll receive an email letting you know if your name has been drawn. 
3. Confirm participation: If selected, you must confirm your participation within 30 days. Those unable to proceed can decline the rebate and remain eligible for future selections. Failure to respond results in the spot being given to another applicant.
4. Install your safe room: Once confirmed, you can proceed with the installation. Choose a reputable company to install your safe room according to SoonerSafe rules and regulations. Remember, you must have the funds to cover the full cost upfront.
5. Submit documents: Be prepared to submit the required forms by the deadline to receive your rebate. These include proof of payment, a completed Certificate of Installation, and photos of the installed safe room. Following submission, it may take several months to process your rebate.

What Kind of Safe Rooms Qualify?

Not all storm shelters are created equal, so be sure to choose a certified model. The Oklahoma SoonerSafe safe room rebate program requires that all shelters comply with FEMA P-361 guidelines and ICC-500 standards. Common types of qualifying safe rooms include:

• Underground garage shelters: These are installed below your garage floor, providing protection without requiring extra square footage.
• Above-ground steel safe rooms: These standalone units may be built inside or outside your home.
• Outdoor concrete storm shelters: If space allows, you might install an underground storm shelter in your yard.

Tips for a Smooth Application Process

While waiting for the 2025 application period to open, here are a few things you can do to prepare:

• Follow OEM on Facebook, X, or Instagram. They’ll announce when the application window opens for 2025.
• Set a reminder. Once registration opens, don’t wait until the last minute to apply.
• Check your email. If you’re selected, you’ll need to confirm quickly.
• Choose a qualified installer. Have a company in mind to install your safe room so you can begin the project quickly if selected.

Why Choose Ground Zero Shelters, Co.?

Ground Zero has been protecting families in the Oklahoma City and Tulsa areas since 2004. Our patented safe room and storm shelter designs exceed FEMA standards, and we offer start-to-finish services to simplify the process. All customers receive a lifetime warranty to ensure quality and peace of mind. To learn more or request a quote, please contact us today.