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All life events

A fire, flood or storm

Shelter, food, repairs and papers after a disaster.

What to do first

  1. If you are in danger, call 911 and follow what local officials tell you.
  2. Call 211 for shelter, food and supplies near you.
  3. Take photos of the damage and keep every receipt.
  4. Call your insurance company to start a claim.
  5. If the President declared a disaster in your area, apply with FEMA.

Which state are you in?

We show your state's programs. We remember your state in this browser only.

Talk it through

Tell us more about what happened. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.

Dates that matter

These windows are set by federal rules. Your state may have its own dates too, so ask the agency.

  • 60 days

    FEMA disaster help

    You usually have 60 days from the date of the disaster declaration to apply with FEMA. FEMA sometimes gives more time, and you can ask to apply late if you have a reason.

    Source: FEMA.gov

Federal help

These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.

  • SBA.gov

    Disaster loans for homes

    The Small Business Administration makes low-interest disaster loans to homeowners and renters, not only businesses, to repair or replace what was lost.

    Official page

  • USDA.gov

    Food help after a disaster

    After some disasters, the state may offer Disaster SNAP (D-SNAP) for a short time. Your state's food benefits office will say if it is open.

    Official page

  • SAMHSA.gov

    Someone to talk to

    The Disaster Distress Helpline is free and open all day, every day, for anyone upset by a disaster.

    Official page Call 1-800-985-5990Text 1-800-985-5990

  • Federal Emergency Management Agency

    FEMA disaster assistance

    Help with a place to stay, repairs and other needs after a disaster the President has declared in your area.

    Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by phone, or in person at a Disaster Recovery Center.

    Apply on DisasterAssistance.gov Call 1-800-621-3362

  • Social Security Administration

    Replace a Social Security card

    Get a free replacement Social Security card if yours was lost, stolen or damaged. Many people can ask online.

    Request it online with a my Social Security account, or visit or call Social Security. It is always free.

    Apply on SSA.gov Call 1-800-772-1213

Checked on October 9, 2026

Help near you

Checked on October 9, 2026