AUSTIN, TX– The deadline for registering for federal disaster assistance is one week away, and disaster recovery centers will be closing. But the assistance doesn’t stop when FEMA leaves.
After the centers close, survivors whose homes or businesses were affected by the severe storms and flooding can still get updates about applications, learn about the appeals process or check the status of their claim the following ways:
Or, visit fema.gov/mobile-app to download the app.
Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362). Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. Toll-free numbers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Recovery officials encourage survivors who registered for disaster assistance with FEMA to stay in touch. If survivors change addresses or phone numbers they should contact FEMA to update their information. Missing or incorrect information could result in delays in receiving assistance.
Applicants who have been denied FEMA assistance or are unhappy with the amount of assistance received, can file an appeal by calling the FEMA registration number 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
Recovery from a disaster is a long-term process and volunteer and non-profit organizations are there long after FEMA has left. These organizations could offer assistance or funding for repair work for those community members who need more assistance than what FEMA or SBA could provide. Survivors looking for help for cleanout, furniture moving and rebuilding can call 2-1-1 or (877) 541-7905. 2-1-1 can connect survivors with up-to-date information about the resources available to them in their areas.
For more information on recovery in Hidalgo, Cameron and Jim Wells counties, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4377 or the Texas Division of Emergency Management website.
The deadline to register for federal disaster assistance is Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2018.
