This page offers answers to frequently asked questions about Individual Assistance for disaster survivors.
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Use the dropdown menu to filter by the type of question, or type in a keyword.
This page offers answers to frequently asked questions about Individual Assistance for disaster survivors.
Use the dropdown menu to filter by the type of question, or type in a keyword.
While recovering from a disaster, you may find yourself or your family struggling emotionally. These emotions are normal and part of the recovery process. It’s important to know when to seek emotional or spiritual help.
Search for open shelters by texting SHELTER and your ZIP code to 43362. Example: Shelter 01234 (standard text messaging rates apply).
An eligible medical or dental expense must be a result of the disaster. Eligible expenses may be related to:
Yes! Before removing flood-damaged items from your home, take these steps:
To be eligible for Home Repair Assistance, FEMA must be able to verify that you owned and lived in your home as your primary residence at the time of the disaster.
FEMA typically verifies homeownership and occupancy through an automated public records search conducted at the time of registration. If FEMA is unable to verify this information via automated records search or other methods, you may be asked to submit documentation to verify your ownership and occupancy status.
By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits provided by insurance. If you have applicable insurance, you must submit your insurance settlement or denial to FEMA before being considered for Home Repair Assistance.
If downed trees do not affect the access to your home, you may not qualify for financial assistance with debris removal from FEMA. If insured, check your homeowner’s insurance policy. Many policies cover debris removal.
You may call 2-1-1 for referral to local services. There may be agencies in your area that may provide debris removal services. Monitor your local newspaper, radio, and television.
Through the Individuals and Households Program, FEMA may provide the following assistance for eligible expenses and losses that are not covered by insurance or any other source.
The following list includes the different types of assistance FEMA is authorized to offer through the state-requested disaster declaration process. The type of assistance available is dependent on the request from the state.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides some guidance on renter's rights. Additional help may be available by calling the toll-free legal aid hotline at (800) 310-7029.
To be eligible for Rental Assistance, you must meet the following basic eligibility criteria:
Visit the Find Assistance page to see the different assistance you might be eligible for.