FEMA Does Not Replace Insurance

• FEMA assistance is designed to help you get back on your feet, not make you whole.

• Most FEMA grants are limited and will not cover all damages.

Assistance Is Not Automatic

• You must apply for FEMA assistance, either online, by phone, or in person at a Disaster Recovery Center.

• Registration deadlines are strict — usually 60 days after the disaster declaration.

FEMA Assistance Is Limited

• Grants may cover temporary housing, basic home repairs, or essential personal property (like a bed or refrigerator).

• FEMA will not pay to return your home or belongings to their pre-disaster condition.

Loans May Come Through SBA

• Even if you don’t own a business, you may be referred to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for a low-interest disaster loan.

• Homeowners and renters may be eligible for these loans, which often cover repairs FEMA doesn’t.

FEMA Is the Payer of Last Resort

• Insurance and other resources must be used first. FEMA will not duplicate benefits.

• If insurance denies or partially covers your claim, FEMA may step in to help with unmet needs.

Documentation Is Critical

• Keep copies of insurance letters, utility bills, ID, proof of occupancy/ownership, and receipts.

• FEMA may deny your claim if you cannot prove where you live or what was damaged.

Appeals Are Allowed

• If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Many denials are overturned when applicants provide additional documents.

Renters Can Get Help Too

• Renters may receive assistance for personal property losses and temporary housing, not just homeowners.

FEMA Assistance Is Tax-Free

• Grants you receive are not taxable income and do not need to be repaid.

Scams Are Common

Document Everything Immediately

• Take photos and videos of all damages before making any repairs or cleaning up.

• Capture wide shots of rooms plus close-ups of damaged items.

Save Receipts

• Keep receipts for temporary repairs (tarps, plywood, etc.), hotels, meals, or other emergency expenses — many may be reimbursable.

File Quickly, But Thoroughly

• Contact your insurance company as soon as it’s safe.

• The sooner you file, the faster you get in the queue for adjusters.

Know Your Policy

• Understand your deductibles, coverage limits, and exclusions (flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance).

• Ask your agent to explain gray areas before signing off.

Do Temporary Repairs, Not Full Repairs

• Prevent further damage (cover roof holes, shut off water, etc.) but don’t start full reconstruction until the adjuster inspects.

• Insurance may deny claims if they can’t see original damage.

Create a Home Inventory

• If you didn’t have one before, start now by listing damaged items, approximate cost, and purchase dates.

• Old photos, receipts, and even bank/credit card statements can help prove value.

Be Present During the Adjuster Visit

• Walk with them, point out all damages, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

• Keep your own notes of what was inspected.

Don’t Accept the First Offer If It’s Too Low

• You have the right to request a re-inspection or provide additional proof.

• You can also hire a public adjuster or contractor for a second opinion.

Watch for Deadlines

• Some policies have strict timelines for filing supplemental claims or appeals.

• Stay on top of paperwork and keep copies of everything submitted.

Flood Damage Is Separate

Stress After a Disaster Is Normal

• It’s common to feel overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or even guilty. These are natural reactions to a difficult event.

Everyone Copes Differently

• Some people want to talk right away, others may need time. Children, seniors, and people with disabilities may show stress in different ways.

Take Care of Basic Needs First

• Eating regularly, drinking water, resting when possible, and moving your body all help your mind recover.

Avoid Isolation

• Connect with friends, neighbors, faith groups, or support teams. Recovery is easier when you don’t go through it alone.

Limit Doom-Scrolling

• Too much disaster coverage can increase stress. Stay informed, but take breaks from the news and social media.

Children Need Extra Support

• Kids may act out, regress, or become clingy. Be patient, keep routines, and explain things in ways they can understand.

Help Others, But Set Boundaries

• Volunteering or helping neighbors can boost your own recovery — just make sure you don’t burn yourself out.

Look for Warning Signs

• If sadness, anger, or anxiety makes it hard to function day-to-day, or if you or someone you love feels hopeless or thinks about self-harm, seek help immediately.

Resources Are Available

• Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (24/7, confidential)

• NC 211 for local resources

• Faith leaders, counselors, and community health centers can also connect you to support.

Healing Takes Time

Recovery Takes Time

• Large-scale disasters often take years to recover from — not weeks or months. Progress can feel slow, but each step forward matters.

Response vs. Recovery

• First comes response (rescue, shelters, supplies). Recovery is what follows — rebuilding homes, restoring services, and healing communities.

FEMA Is Only the Beginning

• Federal aid usually covers only basic needs. Full recovery depends on local nonprofits, faith-based groups, and community organizations.

Documentation Is Critical

• Save all receipts, take photos of damage, and keep important paperwork organized. This helps with insurance, FEMA, and nonprofit assistance.

Beware of Scams

• Only work with licensed contractors and verified organizations. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Insurance & Grants Don’t Cover Everything

• Most survivors will need a mix of insurance, FEMA, SBA loans, nonprofits, and volunteer help. Very few get everything covered by one source.

Recovery Is Unequal Without Support

• Seniors, people with disabilities, renters, and families with low income often face bigger barriers. That’s why community partnerships matter.

Volunteers Are Key

• Much of the rebuilding is done by volunteer groups. Housing those volunteers and supplying them is as important as materials.

Mental Health Is Part of Recovery

• Rebuilding homes also means caring for emotional well-being. Stress, grief, and burnout are common — help is available.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

Cash Is King

• ATMs and card systems may be down after a storm. Keep small bills on hand for fuel, food, and supplies.

Track Every Expense

• Save receipts for hotels, meals, supplies, repairs, and gas — many may qualify for reimbursement through insurance, FEMA, or taxes.

Disaster Unemployment Is Available

• If you lose work because of the disaster, you may qualify for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA), even if you’re self-employed.

Talk to Creditors Early

• Many banks, lenders, and utility companies offer hardship programs, deferred payments, or waived late fees if you notify them promptly that you or your employer were impacted by a disaster.

Watch for Scams

• Never pay contractors in full upfront. FEMA will never charge you money to apply. Use only trusted organizations and verified resources.

If You Have Insurance, File a Claim

• Most insurance companies do not require you to pay a deductible out of pocket, it often comes off the top of your award check. Do not let this stop you from filing a claim. Talk to your insurance company to see what the process is. 

FEMA/SBA Aid Is Not a Blank Check

• FEMA grants are limited, and SBA loans must be repaid. Don’t overextend yourself — budget carefully for recovery.

Check Your Mail & Bank Often

• FEMA, Insurance or other assistance organizations may send checks or letters with deadlines. Missing a deadline could mean losing assistance. Be sure to check your email often, including junk mail.

Tax Relief May Apply

• Disaster losses not covered by insurance or FEMA can sometimes be deducted on your federal taxes. Keep records and ask a tax preparer about disaster relief provisions.

Recovery Takes Long-Term Planning

Children Feel Stress Differently

• Kids may show stress through clinginess, irritability, stomachaches, bedwetting, or acting younger than their age. These are normal responses.

Keep Routines When Possible

• Regular meal times, bedtimes, and family rituals help children feel safe, even when the world around them feels uncertain.

Talk Honestly, But Calmly

• Use age-appropriate language. Answer questions simply, and reassure them adults are working to keep them safe. Avoid scary details.

Let Them Help

• Giving children small jobs (packing their toys, helping a sibling, checking the flashlight batteries) builds confidence and reduces fear.

Be Patient With Behavior Changes

• Emotional ups and downs are common. Extra comfort, understanding, and time will help them recover.

Model Calm and Confidence

• Children look to adults for cues. Staying calm (even when stressed) helps them feel secure.

Limit Media Exposure

• Repeated images of disasters can increase fear and trauma. Turn off constant news coverage when children are present.

Create a Comfort Kit

• Pack familiar items like a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, books, or games. Familiar comforts go a long way in shelters or during evacuations.

Encourage Expression

• Let kids draw, write, or play out their feelings. These activities help them process emotions they can’t explain in words.

Seek Extra Support If Needed