First, the thing that matters most
Applying for FEMA assistance does not replace your insurance claim, and it does not stop you from making one. Apply for both. FEMA assistance is generally limited to needs your insurance does not cover.
Who can apply
Individual Assistance may be available if you live in a county included in a federal disaster declaration and you have uninsured losses. Not every storm triggers a declaration, and not every county is included — check the declaration for the specific event.
How to apply
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- By phone through the FEMA helpline
- In person at a Disaster Recovery Center, if one has opened in your area
What FEMA assistance generally covers — and does not
- May help with: temporary housing, essential home repairs, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.
- Does not: make you whole, rebuild your home to its prior condition, or cover losses your insurance should cover. It is not a substitute for insurance.
What to have ready
- Social Security number, contact information, and the address of the damaged property
- Insurance information, including your policy number
- Bank details for direct deposit
- Description of the damage and your photographs
Protect yourself
- FEMA does not charge an application fee. Anyone asking for payment to register you is committing fraud.
- FEMA inspectors do not charge. They carry identification; ask to see it.
- Nobody legitimate will demand your bank details by unsolicited phone call or text.
- Report disaster fraud to FEMA's fraud line or the Florida Attorney General.
General information. Eligibility, covered losses and deadlines depend on the specific disaster declaration — confirm everything at DisasterAssistance.gov.