What to Expect After You Apply for FEMA Assistance
There are several ways to apply:
- Visit a Disaster Recover Center. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 04074)
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET.
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA mobile app available at Google Play or the Apple App Store
Within 10 days after registering, a FEMA Inspector will contact you to schedule an appointment. To be prepared for the visit, please have the following documents available to support the inspection:
- Driver’s License (State ID) for applicant / co-applicant
- Proof of Ownership / Occupancy
- Receipts of any items purchased prior to inspection.
- Pictures of any damages that may now be repaired.
During the Inspector’s visit, Inspectors will:
- Wear official FEMA ID badges.
- Confirm your disaster registration number.
- Review structural and personal property damages.
Inspectors will not:
- Determine eligibility.
- Take any money or ask for credit card information.
- Take the place of an insurance inspection.
You should be ready to keep your scheduled appointment. Appointments will take 10-20 minutes and you, the Co-applicant or someone you officially authorize to represent you must be present. Contact your insurance agent if you have insurance.
Within 10 days after the inspector’s visit, you will be sent a decision letter. If eligible for assistance, you will receive a check or an electronic funds transfer. A follow-up letter will explain how the money can be used.
For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4765 and fema.gov/disaster/4766. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account at Twitter twitter.com/
For updates on the Rhode Island response and recovery, follow the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency on Twitter at twitter.com/RhodeIslandEMA, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/
