Hurricane Helene recently made landfall along the Gulf Coast, bringing with it a storm so powerful that it continues to destroy everything in its path. Since the disaster has taken place, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, more commonly referred to as FEMA, has stepped forward with much-needed assistance to the individuals and communities that it serves. If you or someone close to you has been affected by Hurricane Helene, then you will need to know how the disaster relief process for FEMA works-from who it’s for to how you qualify, and even what kind of benefits you could receive, not to mention where you’d sign up in the first place.
Eligibility criteria
You can only get this assistance if you are able to satisfy the eligibility criteria set out for this purpose. In this regard, you would have to determine your citizenship status by knowing that only U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals, and qualified non-citizens are eligible to receive FEMA assistance.
- Identity verification: You will be required to have a valid Social Security number, demonstrate that you are a U.S. citizen, national or qualified alien to prove your identity.
- Ownership/occupancy verification: The damaged home for which you are seeking assistance must be your principal residence for some types of assistance FEMA provides.
- Unmet need after insurance: If another source already has covered disaster needs – such as insurance, or sometimes other programs – FEMA cannot provide assistance. Available Benefits
Available assistance and individual assistance benefits
The following assistance under FEMA’s IA program will help individuals and households recover from the disaster.
- Temporary housing: If you cannot live in your home because of the disaster, you may be eligible for a temporary housing grant.
- Home repair: Assistance may be available to repair owner-occupied primary residences to make your home safe, sanitary and functional.
- Personal property: Grants are available to help replace necessary household items not covered by insurance, such as clothing, household items, and needed educational materials.
- Medical, dental, and funeral expenses: Assistance is available for disaster-caused medical, dental, and funeral expenses.
- Transportation: Grants are available to help repair or replace a disaster-damaged vehicle.
- Other disaster-related expenses: You may qualify for assistance for other essential disaster-related needs, such as moving and storage fees, child care and clean-up supplies.
How to apply
There are several ways to apply for FEMA disaster assistance:
- Online: Go to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Mobile app: Download the FEMA app for mobile devices and apply through the app.
- Phone: Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT.
- In person: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center and apply in person. Utilize the DRC Locator to find a facility close to you.
When you apply you will be required to submit the following information:
- Your Social Security number
- Your insurance information
- A description of the damage caused
- Your annual household income
- Your contact information
- Your bank account information for direct deposit
Next steps after applying
After you apply, you will receive notification letters from FEMA either by U.S. mail or electronic correspondence. Following your application, you may be contacted by FEMA to verify information or to schedule a home inspection.
Remember, FEMA assistance is not considered taxable income. It will not affect your eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid, welfare assistance, food stamps, or other federal benefits.
