FEMA & money help
Once your county has a disaster declaration that includes Individual Assistance, you can apply for FEMA help online at DisasterAssistance.gov, in the FEMA App, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or at a Disaster Recovery Center. The deadline is generally 60 days from the declaration. File with your insurance too, and keep every receipt.
Information may be delayed or incomplete. Always verify with official sources and follow local officials.
Your state
Nationwide
- Apply at DisasterAssistance.govOr call the FEMA Helpline, 1-800-621-3362 · FEMA
- Call the FEMA Helpline1-800-621-3362 · FEMA
- SBA disaster loansHomeowners and renters can apply · SBA
- Disaster Legal ServicesFree legal help once authorized · FEMA
- Insurance photo checklistWhat to photograph before you clean · Storm Recovery Hub
How do I apply for FEMA help after a hurricane?
- Apply once your county is declared for Individual Assistance: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, in the FEMA App, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or at a Disaster Recovery Center. (FEMA)
- Deadline: generally 60 days from the disaster declaration. Check your disaster's page on fema.gov for the exact date. (FEMA)
- Have this ready: your contact info and email, the damaged address and where you're staying now, Social Security number, a general list of damage and losses, annual household income, bank info for direct deposit, and your insurance policy number or company. (FEMA)
- Have insurance? Apply anyway. You'll need to file a claim and send FEMA the settlement or denial letter; by law FEMA can't pay for losses your insurance covers. (FEMA)
- For the inspection, have your photo ID, proof you owned or lived in the home, a list of who lived there, your insurance policy, and the damage to show. Real inspectors carry an official photo ID and never ask for money or bank information. (FEMA)
- Beware of scams: FEMA never charges a fee to apply or for an inspection. (FEMA)
- Disagree with FEMA's decision? You can appeal within 60 days of the date on the decision letter, with documents like repair estimates, receipts and bills, so keep every receipt. (FEMA)