Frequently Asked Questions About Disasters

After applying, you may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for an SBA disaster assistance loan as part of the disaster assistance process.

FEMA works with SBA to determine if you should get money for personal property or transportation assistance from FEMA or SBA. FEMA is not allowed to provide money for these losses to people who may qualify for an SBA loan.

FEMA will automatically refer you to SBA to be considered for a disaster loan if you meet SBA’s income standards. FEMA will use your household annual gross income and number of dependents to determine if it will refer you to SBA.

You don’t have to accept an SBA loan offer; however, if you are approved and you do not accept it, you will not be referred back to FEMA for personal property or transportation assistance. You can call FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 if you have additional questions or need more information.  

FEMA Home Repair Assistance is limited and is intended to provide funds for basic repairs to make the home livable. It is not the same as insurance and in most cases, it cannot restore your home to its pre-disaster condition.

To find more information for other resources, visit the Voluntary and Community-Based Organizations page.

No. FEMA will review your application and determine your eligibility for Temporary Housing Assistance.  If you have questions about specific types of assistance, you can contact FEMA’s Helpline at 800-621-3362.