AUSTIN, Texas – Homeowners, renters and businesses have until Thursday, Sept. 4, to apply for federal disaster assistance if you had damage or losses from the July storms and flooding in Central Texas.
Ten counties are designated for federal assistance for the July 2-18 flooding: Burnet, Guadalupe, Kerr, Kimble, McCulloch, Menard, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis and Williamson.
By law, FEMA cannot pay for losses covered by your insurance. That’s why disaster survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their primary homes, personal property and vehicles before applying for FEMA assistance. You must also submit the insurance settlement or denial letter to FEMA.
FEMA grants may be used to rent housing if you are displaced from your home because of the disaster. They can be used to make accessibility repairs and upgrades such as exterior ramp and grab bars. Grants may also be used for medical and/or dental expenses because the disaster caused an injury or illness. And they can be used for funerals or reburial expenses.
FEMA works closely with the U.S. Small Business Administration, which provides low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations and businesses of all sizes.
The last day to apply for an SBA physical disaster loan is the same as the FEMA deadline: Sept. 4.
Keep in mind that applying for federal assistance is not the same as reporting your damage to the state. Reporting disaster damage to the Texas Division of Emergency Management at damage.tdem.texas.gov helps officials connect you with resources and services.
The fastest way to apply to FEMA is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You may also use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT daily. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service. Helpline specialists speak many languages. Press 2 for Spanish.
Another option is to visit any Disaster Recovery Center to receive in-person assistance. To find one close to you, use your ZIP code to search FEMA.gov/DRC. To view an accessible video, review What You Need to Know Before Applying for FEMA Assistance.
To apply for a loan from the Small Business Administration or to download an application, go to SBA.gov/disaster. You may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.
For the latest information about the Texas recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4879. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook.com/FEMARegion6