Disaster Help is Still Available for Texans after FEMA and SBA Application Deadlines

The official deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans has passed. However, help from FEMA, SBA and others is still at hand for Texas renters, homeowners and businesses in areas affected by the spring storms and Hurricane Beryl. Here are some options.

Missed the FEMA or SBA Deadline? You Can Still Apply

If you weren't able to apply with FEMA or SBA before the deadline, you have another 60 days (from the Oct. 10 deadline) to complete late applications for FEMA assistance or an SBA disaster loan.

• To apply late with FEMA: go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call the FEMA Helpline 800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center (for locations: fema.gov/drc). FEMA will send you a letter via U.S. mail or your online FEMA account asking you to explain why you couldn't apply before the deadline. To explain, call the FEMA Helpline or send FEMA a letter, either by mail or by uploading it to your online account at disasterassistance.gov.
• To apply late for an SBA disaster loan: use the MySBA portal at MySBA Loan Portal or visit an SBA Business Recovery Center. (For locations: 800-659-2955). SBA will accept all applications without any explanation for your delay in applying. SBA accepts applications after the 60-day period if you explain why you couldn't apply earlier.

Connect with FEMA to Access all Available Resources

• Keep FEMA up-to-date. Applicants need to inform FEMA of any changes in your circumstances or contact information, including the current status of your insurance settlement. Ask FEMA any questions you may have concerning your recovery.
• Stay in touch: online at disasterassistance.gov, on the FEMA mobile app, or on FEMA's Disaster Hotline at 800-621-3362. People who use a relay service, captioned telephone service or other assistive service should give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). You can connect with FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, state and other resources at Disaster Recovery Centers for several weeks after the application deadline. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday. Some DRCs have closed but several remain open. For locations, visit fema.gov/drc.

Call 211

In Texas, you can dial 2-1-1, or 877- 541-7905, for information about resources in your local community addressing food, housing or other needs arising from the disaster.

For more information about Hurricane Beryl recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.