After a hurricane, the damage can feel overwhelming. Figuring out where to get help is crucial.
To apply for FEMA assistance, you can submit an application online at DisasterAssistance.gov, call FEMA’s toll-free number, or visit a Disaster Recovery Center in person. These options give people in affected areas a straightforward way to ask for help with housing, repairs, and other disaster needs.
FEMA offers assistance only in places with a presidential disaster declaration, and you’ll need to meet certain criteria to qualify. Knowing these requirements before you apply can save you a lot of time and maybe even some headaches.
Gathering the right info—like proof of identity, your address, and a list of the damage—will make things move faster.
This guide breaks down who can apply, how to get ready, and every step in the application process. You’ll also find out what happens after you apply and what kind of help FEMA actually provides, from temporary housing to repairs.
Eligibility Requirements for FEMA Assistance
FEMA only helps people who meet specific rules set by federal law. These rules focus on where the damage happened, what kind of losses you had, and your legal status in the U.S.
You need to meet all the requirements before you can get any aid.
Residency in a Federally Declared Disaster Area
You must live in an area that the President has officially declared a major disaster. This declaration lets FEMA give out aid through the Individuals and Households Program.
The damaged property has to be your main home when the hurricane hit. Vacation homes or second houses don’t count.
FEMA checks residency with public records like utility bills, lease agreements, or mortgage statements. If you don’t have those, they might ask for something else, like a government-issued ID showing your address.
If your area doesn’t have a federal disaster declaration, FEMA won’t process or approve your application.
Types of Eligible Losses and Damages
FEMA covers disaster-related needs that insurance or other programs don’t pay for. Here are some common categories:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Home Repair | Structural damage, broken windows, roof repairs |
| Home Replacement | Total loss of a primary residence |
| Temporary Housing | Rent for a safe place to live while repairs are made |
| Personal Property | Essential household items like beds, appliances, and clothing |
| Other Needs Assistance | Medical, dental, or funeral costs caused by the disaster |
When you apply, you have to report any insurance coverage. FEMA only helps with what’s left after insurance pays out.
They’ll need proof of your insurance settlement or denial before deciding how much help you’ll get.
Citizenship and Immigration Status
Only U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or qualified aliens can get FEMA help. Qualified aliens include green card holders and a few other legal categories.
FEMA checks your status using a valid Social Security number and government records. If that doesn’t work, you might need to show a passport, naturalization certificate, or immigration papers.
If your household has mixed immigration statuses, you can still apply if at least one member qualifies. That person has to be the one who applies.
Preparing to Apply for FEMA Assistance
You’ll need to provide proof of identity, details about your home and damages, and info about any insurance. Having clear records and good documentation can speed things up and help you avoid delays.
Gathering Required Documentation
FEMA wants specific info to check if you qualify. Make sure you have your Social Security number, current contact info, and annual household income ready.
You’ll also need the address of the damaged property and your mailing address, if it’s different. A phone number and email help FEMA reach you quickly.
For proof of identity, use a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. To prove you live there or own the place, you can show a mortgage statement, lease, or utility bill.
It’s smart to keep these documents in a safe, waterproof folder. Digital copies stored online can be a lifesaver if you lose the originals.
Assessing and Documenting Damages
Before you apply, take a good look at your property and make a list of everything damaged. That includes structural problems, roof issues, water intrusion, and loss of basic systems like power or plumbing.
Snap clear, dated photos of each damaged spot. Get some wide shots to show the big picture, and close-ups for details.
Write down an inventory of damaged personal property with estimated values. Sort the list by type—furniture, appliances, clothing, and so on.
If it’s safe, you might want to get repair estimates from licensed contractors. These can help back up your claim and give you a sense of what repairs might cost.
Contacting Your Insurance Provider
FEMA isn’t a replacement for insurance. You have to file a claim with your homeowner’s, renter’s, or flood insurance provider first.
The insurance company will give you a claim number and an adjuster’s report. FEMA will probably ask for this before they process your application.
Keep track of all your communication with the insurance company—dates, names, and claim updates.
If insurance doesn’t cover everything, FEMA may help with what’s left. Knowing your insurance settlement amount will make figuring out your FEMA aid easier.
How to Submit Your FEMA Application
You can apply for FEMA disaster assistance in a few ways, depending on what works for you. The application process asks for personal details, proof of identity, and info about the hurricane damage.
Applying Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
You can use DisasterAssistance.gov to submit your application. The site works on most computers, tablets, and smartphones.
The online form will ask for:
- Full legal name
- Current and damaged property addresses
- Contact information (phone number, email)
- Social Security number
- Bank account details for direct deposit
- Insurance information and claim status
You can upload documents like proof of ownership or occupancy. You’ll also be able to check your case status whenever you want.
Double-check your entries before submitting, since mistakes can slow things down. The system gives you a confirmation number—definitely save that.
Using the FEMA App
The FEMA App is a mobile option for applying. You can get it free from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
With the app, you can:
- Start a new application
- Upload documents
- Track your application status
- Get alerts about disaster recovery centers and deadlines
The app works best with a steady internet or cell signal. Have scanned or photographed copies of your documents ready to go.
You’ll also find other tools, like disaster safety tips and maps of disaster areas, which can help you check if you’re eligible.
Applying by Phone
You can call FEMA’s Helpline at 1‑800‑621‑3362 to apply. This is great for anyone without solid internet or who just wants to talk to someone.
Have the same info ready as you would for the online application—Social Security number, property addresses, contact details, and insurance records.
The helpline can connect you to language help or services for hearing or speech disabilities. If you use a video relay service or captioned phone, give FEMA your service number.
Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center
Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are places where you can apply in person. FEMA staff and other agencies are there to answer questions, help with forms, and explain what paperwork you need.
Bring these with you:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of residence or property ownership
- Insurance paperwork
- Any FEMA letters you’ve already received
DRCs usually have computers, printers, and scanners you can use. You can find locations and hours on FEMA.gov, the FEMA App, or by calling the helpline.
Some centers also offer info on housing, legal aid, and other recovery resources.
Information Needed for Your FEMA Application
You’ll need to give accurate personal, financial, and damage details to finish a FEMA disaster assistance application. Missing or wrong info can slow things down and might mean you have to follow up before there’s a decision.
Personal Identification Details
FEMA asks for proof of identity from at least one household member. Usually, that’s a Social Security number for you, another adult, or a minor child living in the home.
You’ll also need your full legal name, date of birth, and current contact info—mailing address, phone number, and, if you have one, an email.
If you’re staying somewhere different from your damaged property, give FEMA both addresses. That helps them confirm the disaster’s impact and send help to the right place.
Keep your ID handy during the process. That means a driver’s license, state ID, or passport.
Household Income and Insurance Information
FEMA wants to know your annual household income to see if you qualify for certain aid. Add up income from everyone in your home.
You also need to list any active insurance policies—homeowners, renters, or flood insurance. FEMA uses this to coordinate benefits and avoid paying for the same thing twice.
List your insurance company’s name, policy number, and claim status. If you’ve filed a claim, FEMA may ask for proof of what was paid or denied.
Even if you have insurance, you should still apply. FEMA might cover things your policy doesn’t.
Description of Damages
You’ll need to describe the hurricane damage clearly and honestly. Include the date it happened and what kind of disaster your area had.
Mention which parts of your home were hit. For example:
- Structural damage (roof, walls, foundation)
- Utilities (water, power, heating/cooling)
- Personal property (appliances, furniture, clothing)
If your home isn’t safe to live in, say so. FEMA may want photos, repair estimates, or inspection reports to back up your claim.
Keep notes on repairs you’ve already made and receipts for expenses. That can help move things along.
Banking Information for Direct Deposit
FEMA can send funds straight to your bank account. For this, you’ll need to give:
- Bank name
- Routing number
- Account number
- Account type (checking or savings)
This is way faster than waiting for a check in the mail. Double-check your numbers before you hit submit to avoid delays.
If you don’t have a bank account, FEMA can send a check by mail, but it might take longer to arrive.
After You Apply: Next Steps and Follow-Up
After you submit your application, FEMA starts reviewing your info to see if you qualify. You may need to track your case, get ready for an inspection, and reply quickly if they ask for more details.
These steps help prevent delays and keep things moving.
Checking Application Status
You can check your FEMA application status online, by phone, or with the FEMA mobile app.
- Online: Log in at DisasterAssistance.gov using your Application ID.
- By phone: Call 1‑800‑621‑3362 (FEMA) from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time.
- Mobile app: Download the FEMA App to see updates.
Keep your Application ID somewhere safe. You’ll need it for status checks and any changes.
Status updates might tell you if your application is under review, if FEMA needs more documents, or if there’s a decision.
Check in regularly so you don’t miss important deadlines or requests.
Home Inspection and Verification Process
If FEMA needs to check damages, they’ll set up a home inspection. This might happen in person or remotely with photos, videos, or even a phone call.
FEMA inspectors look for disaster-related damage to your home and personal property. They don’t decide your assistance amount, but they send their findings for review.
You’ll want to:
- Double-check that your contact phone number is up to date.
- Have your ID ready.
- Make sure inspectors can get to all damaged areas.
If you can’t be there for the inspection, let FEMA know right away so you can reschedule. Skipping the inspection can slow down your assistance.
For remote inspections, clear photos and honest descriptions really help confirm the damage.
Responding to Requests for Additional Information
FEMA might ask for more paperwork to finish their review. They could need proof of ownership, proof you live there, or details about your insurance.
Send documents as soon as you can using the method FEMA tells you—whether that’s online, by mail, or by fax.
Here are some common documents:
| Document Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Proof of Ownership | Deed, mortgage statement |
| Proof of Occupancy | Utility bill, lease agreement |
| Insurance Information | Policy documents, claim letters |
If you wait too long to send what they need, you might get denied or receive less assistance.
Not sure what to send? Just call 1‑800‑621‑3362 and ask before you send anything.
Types of FEMA Disaster Assistance Available
FEMA offers several kinds of disaster assistance to help people recover from hurricane damage. These programs might cover temporary housing, home repairs, essential personal property, and other disaster-related expenses that insurance doesn’t pay for.
Individuals and Households Program
The Individuals and Households Program (IHP) gives financial help and direct services to residents in federally declared disaster areas. You’ll qualify if a hurricane causes uninsured or underinsured losses to your main home.
IHP assistance is not a loan and you don’t have to pay it back. The program can help with temporary housing, repairs to make your home safe, and replacing important household items.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, or qualified aliens. The damaged property has to be your main home, and the disaster must have caused the damage directly. FEMA might also ask for proof of identity, occupancy, and ownership.
Housing Assistance
FEMA’s Housing Assistance covers several needs after a hurricane damages your home. This can include:
- Temporary Housing: Money to rent somewhere while you fix your place.
- Repair Assistance: Funds to fix structural damage, electrical, plumbing, and other essential parts of your home.
- Replacement Assistance: Help to replace a destroyed main home.
- Direct Housing: Sometimes, FEMA provides manufactured housing units or other temporary options.
These benefits focus on making your place safe, sanitary, and livable. They won’t pay for upgrades or improvements beyond what you had before the disaster. If you have insurance, you need to file a claim first, since FEMA can’t pay for what insurance already covers.
Other Needs Assistance
Other Needs Assistance (ONA) helps with essential expenses after a hurricane that aren’t about housing. This might include:
- Replacing personal property like clothing, furniture, or appliances.
- Medical, dental, or funeral bills caused by the disaster.
- Transportation costs if your vehicle gets damaged or destroyed.
- Clean-up supplies and safety gear.
ONA is a cost-sharing program between FEMA and your state, territory, or tribe. Usually, you need to apply for a Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loan for personal property or transportation losses first. If you don’t get approved for a loan, FEMA might step in with ONA funds.
Additional Support Services
FEMA runs programs that go beyond just financial recovery after a hurricane. You’ll find a few different types of support here:
- Crisis Counseling: Survivors can get short-term mental health support if they need it.
- Disaster Unemployment Assistance: If you lost your job because of the disaster and can’t get regular unemployment, this program offers temporary income.
- Disaster Legal Services: You can get free legal help for things like landlord disputes, insurance claims, or replacing important documents.
- Disaster Case Management: Case managers help you make a recovery plan and connect you with resources.
State agencies, non-profits, and community groups usually team up with FEMA to provide these services. They want to help people tackle problems that go way beyond just property damage.