Individual Assistance
When disasters hit, they affect more than buildings—they impact people and disrupt their lives. When insurance and other resources aren’t enough, Individual Assistance provides direct help to Oklahomans recovering from a disaster.
Through FEMA's Individual Housing program, we can support temporary housing, home repairs, essential personal property, medical and funeral expenses and other urgent needs. Our program ensures our citizens get the help they need to recover safely and rebuild stronger.
Whether it's during or after a disaster, we’re here to help and connect you with available resources. We also have support from other voluntary organizations active in disasters (VOAD).
Have you reported your damage?
Reporting damage is critical to starting your recovery and helps secure federal funding for the state. The survey is easy to complete and user-friendly.
During or Right After a Disaster
How to Apply for Individual Assistance
Individual Assistance FAQ
Declared Resources
During or Immediately After Disaster
During a disaster, resources are critical. Individual Assistance/Human Services rely upon the collaboration of resources made available to the citizens.
Call 211 or go to findhelp.org for immediate help.
To start your disaster recovery process, get in touch with your local Catholic Charities to learn about services that can support you. Visit their websites: Oklahoma City area or Tulsa area.
Below are a few of the partners dedicated to the safety and protection of Oklahomans during a disaster.
How to apply for Individual Assistance
Declared Disasters
If a disaster has been federally declared and Individual Assistance is available, you can apply for help in several ways:
- Online – Visit DisasterAssistance.gov to apply and check the status of your application.
- By Phone – Call FEMA’s Helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). TTY users can call 1-800-462-7585.
- In Person – If Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are open in your area, you can meet with staff who will help you apply and answer questions.
When you apply, you’ll need to provide:
- Your address and contact information
- A description of the damage or loss
- Insurance information (if available)
- Your Social Security Number (or that of a household member)
- Banking information for direct deposit
After you apply, inspectors will contact you to schedule a visit and confirm your damages. You can track the progress of your application online, by phone, or at a recovery center.
If you are unsure if the event is a federal disaster, you can check the FEMA website here.
Non-Declared Disasters
If you suffered damages in a disaster but it's not been declared by the President, there still may be help available to you.
State-declared disasters may be available for Small Business Administration loans for homeowners and renters. SBA is a low-interest, long-term loan. It does have to be paid back.
To apply:
- Online - visit SBA.gov or MySBA Loan Portal.
- By Phone - call SBA at 1-800-659-2955.
- In Person – If Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are open in your area, you can meet with staff who will help you apply and answer questions. Check here to find a center.
Need Help Navigating Assistance
A great place to start your disaster recovery process is to get in touch with your local Catholic Charities. They have many services that can support you during this time. Visit their websites: Oklahoma City area or Tulsa area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Individual Assistance?
Individuals and households affected by a federally declared disaster may apply. Both homeowners and renters could be eligible for certain types of assistance. Visit www.disasterassistance.gov for more information.
If your disaster was not federally declared, you can start your disaster recovery process by getting in touch with your local Catholic Charities to learn about services that can support you. Visit their websites: Oklahoma City area or Tulsa area.
What kinds of help are available?
Assistance may include temporary housing, rental assistance, home repairs, replacement of essential personal property, help with medical or funeral costs, and other disaster-related expenses.
What if I have insurance?
You should file a claim with your insurance company first. FEMA may provide assistance for needs not fully covered by your insurance.
Do I have to repay Individual Assistance?
FEMA Individual Assistance is not a loan—it’s a grant. You do not have to pay it back.
Small Business Administration (SBA) is a low-interest loan that has to be paid back.
What is SBA?
SBA is a federal agency that also provides low-interest, long-term disaster loans to help homeowners and renters recover from damage caused by state or federally declared disasters, such as severe storms, floods, or wildfires.
What is the deadline for applying for FEMA Individual Assistance?
You have 60 days from the date the President declares a disaster to apply.
How long does it take to get assistance?
After you apply, FEMA will review your information and will schedule an inspection. The time it takes can vary, but you can track your application status online or by phone.
Can renters apply for assistance?
Yes. Renters may be eligible for rental assistance, personal property assistance, and other essential needs.
What is a Multi-Agency Resource Center?
A Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) is a one-stop shop set up after a disaster to help survivors recover. It's a central spot where government agencies (like FEMA or SBA), nonprofits, and community groups team up to provide info, services, and resources all in one place—think applying for aid, getting repair advice, or finding temporary housing.
What if I don’t qualify for FEMA assistance?
Other resources may be available, including state, local, or nonprofit assistance programs. Catholic Charities can connect you with many disaster-related services.
Declared Resources
Need help now? Start here. These links and numbers connect you directly to disaster assistance and recovery services.
📞 Call for Help
1-800-621-FEMA (3362)
TTY: 1-800-462-7585
711/VRS: 1-800-621-3362
Check Declared Disaster
www.fema.gov/disaster/current
💻 Apply or Check Status Online
DisasterAssistance.gov
📍 Find a Recovery Center
Use the FEMA DRC Locator
📌 Oklahoma Team
(405) 521-2481
When an emergency event receives a Federal Disaster Declaration, OEM administers the Individual and Households program (IHP), Crisis Counseling grant, Community Services program, Disaster Service Centers and the donation management program for unsolicited donations. For more information for all the current programs visit FEMA's website. Below is a table referencing some of the available programs.
| State/Federal Programs |
|---|
| Oklahoma Department of Human Services |
| Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services |
| Housing and Urban Development (HUD) |
| Oklahoma Finance & Housing Agency |
| SBA Disaster Loans (residential and small businesses low interest loans) |
|
| FEMA Programs |
|---|
| Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) |
| Individual and Households Program (IHP) |
|
You're Not Alone
You’re not alone in recovering from disaster. Individual Assistance is here to help you and your family get back on your feet. Whether you need housing support, help with repairs, or guidance through the application process, resources are available.
Start now by visiting our Quick Resources to apply, check your application status, or find any available recovery centers. Every step brings you closer to recovery.
Contact Us
(405) 521-2481
