Northeast Arkansas Tornado and Storm Survivors Can Now Apply for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Assistance:
Arkansas homeowners and renters affected by the recent tornadoes and severe storms that occurred December 10-11, 2021, who live in counties that have recently been designated for Individual Assistance, may apply for help from FEMA.
The designated counties are Craighead, Jackson, Mississippi, Poinsett, and Woodruff.
If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
If it is not possible for you to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines will operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CST. You can also use the FEMA App on your smartphone.
When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:
- A current phone number where you can be contacted
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Your Social Security number, if available
- A general list of damage and losses
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name
As soon as it is safe to do so, start cleaning up. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.
Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging and home repairs along with other programs to assist families recover from the effects of the event.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Opens Disaster Recovery Center in Trumann:
ASU-Newport Adult Education
212 S Melton-Trumann
Mondays – Fridays
9:00 am – 6:00 pm
SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for homeowners, renters, businesses of any size and most nonprofits. Similar to FEMA, SBA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance.
For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most nonprofits, up to $2 million is available for working capital needs even if there was no property damage, with a $2 million maximum loan for any combination of property damage and working capital needs.
For homeowners, up to $200,000 is available to repair or replace their primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 is available to replace personal property, including vehicles.
To be considered for all forms of disaster assistance, survivors must first contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.disasterassistance.gov.
