500 C St. Sw, Washington, DC 20472

24 hrs a day, 7 days a week

Visit website anytime for information, including to see if the caller's zip code has been declared for individual assistance. Can also phone M-Su: 7:00am-11:00pm (hours may change during a disaster). An App for smartphones is available through the website. In times of a major disaster, it may be very difficult to get through by phone due to the high volume of calls, so the Web site may be a better option. Will need to supply the following information: Social security number, description of losses, directions to damaged property, current mailing address, phone number where applicants can be reached, insurance information (if applicable), approximate gross income at time of disaster, and bank account information (for direct deposit). When registering, will be given a FEMA Registration ID number. Applicants will be notified of acceptance or denial, generally within 10 days. If an inspection is needed, an inspector will contact within 10 days. After the inspection is made, the client will be contacted of acceptance or denial within 10 days. If accepted, client will be mailed a check or money deposited in client's bank account. If denied, will be mailed information about how to appeal.

Free

Must have been living in a federally declared disaster area in the United States and have property damaged or destroyed by the disaster. A member of the household must be a U.S. Citizen, qualified alien, or noncitizen national. In most cases, the residence that was damaged must be the primary residence and must have been living in this residence at the time of the disaster. Funds may be used to fill gaps left by home insurance coverage. However, persons with insurance, should contact their insurance company about their coverage. Other eligibility requirements may apply.