FEMA Disaster Assistance

Applying for Assistance

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go to DisasterAssistance.gov and follow the instructions. This may give you access to financial aid, which can be used for temporary housing, repairs, and low-interest loans. FEMA assistance is also available in other languages upon request.

FEMA will arrange a virtual inspection of your damaged home or property as part of your application review. The inspector might call you directly without warning, so be sure to answer all calls and texts. If the inspector can’t reach you, they might withdraw your application.

Tips for Applying

  1. Apply right away. The deadline is 60 days after the date of the disaster declaration unless FEMA extends it.

  2. Write down what you lost (ex., home, furniture, job) and what you need (ex., place to live, rent, home repairs).

  3. Wait to repair until FEMA inspects your damaged property.

  4. Keep a disaster notebook. Write down your FEMA application number and take notes every time you speak to someone at FEMA.

  5. Save all disaster-related documents, like copies of letters from FEMA and receipts.

  6. You will need your state or county-issued picture ID to prove your identity. Minors will need to show their social security card, birth certificate, and their parent or guardian’s picture ID.

  7. You will need to prove that you lived in your home when the disaster happened. You can use your driver’s license, utility bills, credit card bills, bank statements, pay stubs, voter registration card, lease, or rent receipts to do this. The documents need to be unexpired and/or dated within 1 year of the disaster date and have one of the applicant’s exact names and the exact damaged address.

  8. You will need to prove that you own your home. Some things FEMA will accept as proof you own the home are your deed, mortgage statement, property tax bill or receipt, mobile home certificate of title or notarized bill of sale, or a will or similar legal document naming you owner. If you do not have any of these documents, FEMA might accept receipts for maintenance and repairs to the home before the storm.

  9. When the FEMA inspector contacts you, reply right away and plan for someone to be present during the inspection. Be ready to show the documents described above and have your list of losses ready. You will need to show them each damaged area or item, or they will not be considered for benefits.

  10. If you haven’t heard from FEMA, call them. Don’t apply a second time because it will cause problems with your claim. If you are denied, you have 60 days to file a written appeal. We recommend you get legal assistance right away with any appeals.

FEMA Assistance and Benefits

Money provided by FEMA does not have to be repaid and may include:

  • Serious Needs: Money for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items, and fuel for transportation.

  • Displacement: Money to help with housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends, or other options while you look for a rental unit.

  • Home Repair or Replacement: Money to help you repair or replace your home damaged by the disaster. The money can also help with pre-existing damage to parts of your home where the disaster caused further damage.

  • Rental Assistance: Money you can use to rent housing if you are displaced from your home because of the disaster.

  • Personal Property: Money to help you repair or replace appliances, room furnishings, and a personal or family computer damaged by the disaster. This can also include money for books, uniforms, tools, additional computers, and other items required for school or work, including self-employment.

  • Childcare: Money to help you pay for increased childcare expenses caused by the disaster.

  • Transportation: Money to help you repair or replace a vehicle damaged by the disaster when you don’t have another vehicle you can use.

  • Moving and Storage Expenses: Money to help you move and store personal property from your home to prevent additional damage.

  • Miscellaneous: Reimbursement for the cost of buying and renting items used for repair or cleanup (like generators, chainsaws, and dehumidifiers).