When a hurricane, flood, tornado, or wildfire hits, the days afterward can be overwhelming. If the President declares a major disaster in your area, FEMA’s Individual Assistance program may help with some of the costs that insurance doesn’t cover.
What FEMA may help with
- Temporary housing or rental assistance if you can’t live in your home
- Basic repairs to make your home safe and livable
- Replacement of essential personal property
- Disaster-related medical, dental, and funeral costs
- Transportation and child care costs in some cases
FEMA assistance is not meant to replace everything you lost, and it doesn’t duplicate what insurance already pays.
How to apply
- Make sure your county is included in a disaster declaration. You can check on DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, through the FEMA app, or by phone.
- Have your Social Security number, address of the damaged home, insurance information, and bank information for direct deposit.
- Schedule and attend an inspection if FEMA requests one.
- Read every letter from FEMA. If you’re denied, it may just mean they need more documents.
Document everything
- Take photos and videos of damage before cleaning up, if it’s safe.
- Keep receipts for repairs, hotels, and supplies.
- Save all letters and reference numbers from FEMA and your insurance company.
Beware of disaster scams
FEMA never charges a fee to apply. Be cautious of people who claim to be FEMA inspectors but ask for money or bank passwords. Real FEMA staff carry official photo IDs.
What happens during the inspection
After you apply, FEMA may schedule an inspection to verify the damage. The inspector will check the damage to your home and personal property and confirm your identity and that you lived there. Have your ID, proof of ownership or rental, and insurance information ready. The inspection doesn’t decide your aid right away. FEMA reviews the information and sends a letter with its decision.
Other help after a disaster
- The U.S. Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners and renters, not just businesses.
- Disaster Unemployment Assistance may help people who lost work because of a declared disaster.
- Disaster SNAP may provide food benefits to households affected by some disasters.
- Local charities, such as the American Red Cross, can help with immediate needs like shelter, food, and supplies.
Prepare before the next disaster
Store copies of important documents in a waterproof bag or in secure cloud storage. Take photos of your home and belongings now, so you have proof if something happens. Review your insurance to see what is and isn’t covered, especially for floods, which standard homeowners policies usually don’t cover.
A real-life example
After a flood damaged the first floor of their rented home, the Nguyen family registered with FEMA through the app while staying with relatives. They uploaded photos taken before cleanup and kept every receipt from their hotel stay.
FEMA approved rental assistance for a temporary apartment and help replacing essential items. When one item was denied, they submitted an appeal with additional receipts and were approved.
Tips from people who have been through it
- Register with FEMA even if you aren’t sure you qualify.
- Take photos before you throw anything away.
- Keep your phone number updated so the inspector can reach you.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center if one opens near you for in-person help.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to file with insurance first?
Yes, if you have insurance. FEMA may help with needs that insurance doesn’t cover.
Can renters get FEMA help?
Yes. Renters may qualify for help with temporary housing and personal property.
Can I appeal a FEMA decision?
Yes. You can appeal within the deadline in your decision letter, usually 60 days.
Related guides
- Emergency Shelter and Homeless Help: What to Do Right Now
- What Is 211? The Free Helpline That Connects You to Local Services
- Home Repair Grants and Loans for Low-Income Homeowners
Official resources
This guide is for general information only. US Assistance Guide is an independent website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any government agency. Program rules, income limits, and benefit amounts change often and vary by state, so always confirm details with the official agency before you apply.