You may feel shaken after a storm or fire. That is normal. Start small, breathe, and focus on one step at a time. Disasters can strike anywhere on the world globe, but in the United States the Federal Emergency Management Agency coordinates emergency responses so people are not left alone.
Open the official "dot gov" site, DisasterAssistance.gov, and apply. Create an account, then sign in so you can check your application status, upload documents, and see answers to common questions. If you prefer in-person help, visit a nearby Disaster Recovery Center where staff can meet with you and review your case.
What to gather: proof of identity, occupancy, and ownership to prove you live in the disaster area. Bring insurance papers, photos of damage and loss, and any prior FEMA letter you received. These records help your application get reviewed faster.
You can apply online, by phone at the FEMA helpline (1-800-621-3362, TTY 1-800-462-7585), or at a center. If the President declares a major disaster and your county becomes a federally declared disaster area, you may be eligible. Both individuals and households can qualify for individual assistance when they meet eligibility rules. If you are unsure, contact FEMA and ask for guidance.
Internal help while you apply: Credit.org’s Disaster Recovery Counseling can help you budget money, organize paperwork, and prepare a simple to-do list. For a deeper overview, see our article, FEMA Disaster Assistance: How it Works and Who It Helps.
File with your insurer and save the claim number. Insurance may not provide full coverage, so FEMA fills gaps after insurance pays. Keep receipts for temporary repairs to keep your family’s safety first. If FEMA requests more documents, respond quickly.
FEMA disaster assistance is aid from the federal government. Disaster relief can also include state and local governments, local governments, nonprofits, the Red Cross, and the SBA. Some people receive financial assistance or federal assistance grants. Others may use low interest disaster loans for business or home recovery. Learn practical steps in Credit.org’s Financial Education Guides & Downloads.
The IRS sometimes offers tax relief when you have unreimbursed losses. You may get extra filing time or claim certain deductions. Keep clean records and receipts. For current rules, see the IRS page for disasters at their website.
The free FEMA app helps you apply and track your case on your phone. It is available in the App Store and Play Store. Use the search icon to find a Disaster Recovery Center, maps, and alerts. You can also complete your application online through the official portal. Look for a U.S. flag to confirm you're at the official government site.
Individual assistance can include rental help, essential repairs, personal property aid, child care, medical costs, and funeral support. Programs and services vary by state and disaster area. Your file is reviewed and you will get a notice if you are approved or if FEMA needs more information.
Your county website and FEMA will post updates when state and local governments open centers or extend deadlines. Every September during National Preparedness Month, agencies remind families to learn how to access trusted resources and programs before the next storm.
You don’t have to face recovery alone. Credit.org’s Disaster Recovery Counseling is here to help you rebuild with confidence.
