Disaster Assistance
Disaster assistance is money provided to individuals, families and businesses in an area whose property has been damaged or destroyed following a Presidential declared disaster; and whose losses are not covered by insurance. Loans may be available to businesses that have suffered an economic loss as a result of the disaster. Assistance is available from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Small Business Administration (SBA), the Farm Services Agency (FSA), and state governments.
FEMA Disaster Assistance
The first step for those requiring assistance following a disaster is to contact FEMA and apply for assistance. FEMA assistance includes money for housing and essential expenses, such as food and clothing; and critical personal expenses, such as medication..
Disaster and Economic Injury Loans
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low interest loans to businesses and individuals to repair or replace real estate, personal property, machinery and equipment, inventory and business assets that have been damaged or destroyed in a declared disaster. In addition SBA, provides economic injury disaster loans to small businesses that have suffered economic losses due to a disaster.
- SBA Disaster Assistance Information
- Apply for a Disaster Loan
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Farm Service Agency provides financial assistance to farmers and ranches for natural disaster losses, resulting from drought, flood, fire, freeze, tornadoes, pest infestation, and other calamities.
Employment Assistance
- Disaster Unemployment Assistance
Learn about financial assistance for self-employed individuals who have lost their job due to a federally declared disaster. - Midwest Flood Recovery Assistance
Info about National Emergency Grants for temporarily employing dislocated workers.
Tax Relief Assistance
- Federal Tax Relief for Individuals and Businesses
Tips and resources to help individuals and business located in federally declared disaster areas. - Disaster Losses Kit for Businesses
Tax info for claiming unreimbursed casualty losses on property that was destroyed by a natural disaster.
Learn about State Tax Relief programs in the State Emergency Guide