Last updated 14 hours ago ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.
Once you apply for FEMA disaster assistance, you can track your application through three channels: the DisasterAssistance.gov website, the FEMA Helpline, or a Disaster Recovery Center. Each method gives you access to case updates, required documents, and next steps.
FEMA routes different issues to specialized teams. Using the right contact point saves time and connects you with someone who can actually help.
Key Contact Numbers
| Service/Issue | Contact Number / Website | Hours of Operation (ET) | Primary Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| FEMA Helpline | 1-800-621-3362 | 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. ET, 7 days/week | Check status, ask questions, update information, find DRC locations |
| TTY (speech/hearing impaired) | 1-800-462-7585 | 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. local time, 7 days/week | Direct TTY access to FEMA Helpline |
| 711 or Video Relay Service | Call 1-800-621-3362 | 7 a.m. – 11 p.m. local time, 7 days/week | Use your relay service to reach FEMA Helpline |
| Internet Help Desk | 1-800-745-0243 | 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. local time, 7 days/week | Technical problems with DisasterAssistance.gov (not login issues) |
| Login.gov Help Center | login.gov/help | 24/7 Online Resources | Account creation, passwords, locked accounts (not FEMA applications) |
| DRC Locator (Text) | Text DRC + ZIP code to 43362 | 24/7 Automated Service | Find nearby Disaster Recovery Center locations |
Checking Status Online
DisasterAssistance.gov offers the most complete access to your application. The portal lets you check status, read messages, upload documents, and update personal information at any hour.
Creating Your Login.gov Account
For security reasons, DisasterAssistance.gov requires a Login.gov account. Older FEMA accounts using a user ID and PIN no longer work.
Steps to create your account:
Go to DisasterAssistance.gov and click “Check Status.”
You’ll be redirected to Login.gov. Select “Create an account.”
Enter your email address. This becomes your username and receives all notifications.
Check your email and click the confirmation link.
Create a password of at least 12 characters.
Set up multi-factor authentication. Choose from text message codes, an authenticator app, or a physical security key.
Connect your Login.gov account to your FEMA file by entering your Social Security number and date of birth.
What You’ll See After Logging In
Your dashboard shows:
- Application summary with registration ID and filing date
- Current status (Pending, Decision Made, etc.)
- Secure message inbox (FEMA emails you when new messages arrive, but you must log in to read them)
- List of required documents
- Options to update contact information
Managing Your Application
Beyond displaying information, the portal lets you resolve common delays.
Upload documents and update contact information: Upload documents through the Upload Center. If you’re staying in temporary housing, update your contact information immediately to ensure you receive correspondence and payments.
Troubleshooting Access Problems
Forgot your password: Go to Login.gov and click “Forgot your password?” Reset it through your email. The FEMA Helpline and Internet Help Desk cannot reset Login.gov passwords.
Website errors: If pages won’t load or you see error messages, call the Internet Help Desk at 1-800-745-0243.
Lost registration number: Your nine-digit FEMA Registration Number appears on all correspondence. If you can’t find it, call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. A representative will locate your file after verifying your identity.
Checking Status by Phone
The FEMA Helpline provides status updates and answers questions for people without reliable internet access or who prefer speaking with someone directly.
How to Contact the Helpline
Call 1-800-621-3362 (1-800-621-FEMA) between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. Eastern Time, seven days a week. During major disasters, FEMA may extend these hours.
Accessibility options:
TTY users should call 1-800-462-7585.
Video Relay Service or 711 users can dial the main helpline at 1-800-621-3362.
Spanish speakers can select Spanish when calling. Interpreters are available for other languages.
What to Have Ready
Representatives must verify your identity before discussing your case. Gather this information before calling:
- Your 9-digit FEMA application number (on all letters and emails)
- Last four digits of the primary applicant’s Social Security number
- Applicant’s full name as entered on the application
- Address of the damaged property (street, city, state, ZIP code)
- Current mailing address and phone number if different from your application
What Happens During the Call
The representative will verify your identity first. Then you can ask specific questions:
- “What’s the current status of my application?”
- “Did you receive the insurance letter I sent last week?”
- “My letter says I’m ineligible. What information is missing?”
- “Can you update my mailing address?”
Watch for fraud: FEMA may call if they need information. Legitimate employees will reference your application number or damaged property address. They will never ask for your full Social Security number or bank account details in an unsolicited call. If you’re suspicious, hang up and call 1-800-621-3362 directly.
Getting Help at a Disaster Recovery Center
Disaster Recovery Centers are temporary, accessible facilities where you can meet with FEMA representatives and other disaster assistance agencies in person.
What DRCs Offer
At a DRC, you can:
- Check your application status
- Get help understanding FEMA letters
- Submit or upload documents
- Update contact information
- Ask questions about housing and rental assistance
- Meet with U.S. Small Business Administration representatives about disaster loans
- Get referrals to state agencies and voluntary organizations
Finding a DRC
DRCs are temporary and their hours vary. Confirm the location before visiting.
Three ways to find one:
Use the FEMA DRC Locator to search by address, city, or state. The tool shows locations, hours, and services.
Text “DRC” and your ZIP code to 43362 (example: “DRC 90210”). You’ll receive the nearest DRC addresses.
Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 and ask for the closest location.
Understanding Your Determination Letter
FEMA mails you an official determination letter after processing your application. The same letter appears in your online message center at DisasterAssistance.gov.
What the Letter Contains
The letter explains whether you’re eligible for assistance. If approved, it specifies the grant amount and its intended use (home repairs, rental assistance, personal property replacement).
You must use these federal funds only for disaster-related purposes. Save all receipts for at least three years to document your spending.
“Ineligible” Usually Means Missing Information
An “ineligible” or “not approved” letter usually means FEMA needs additional documentation. This is a request for information, not a final denial.
The letter states the specific reason and what you need to provide.
Common reasons and solutions:
Missing proof of occupancy: FEMA needs to verify you lived at the damaged property. Submit a utility bill, driver’s license, lease agreement, bank statement, or vehicle registration showing your name and the address.
Missing proof of ownership: For home repair assistance, submit your deed or title, mortgage statements, property tax receipts, homeowner’s insurance documents, or receipts for major repairs.
Insurance coverage: Federal law prohibits FEMA from providing assistance for losses already covered by insurance (duplication of benefits). Submit your insurance settlement or denial letter. If you were underinsured, you may qualify for FEMA assistance to cover unmet needs.
Identity not verified: Your name and Social Security number didn’t match official records. Submit a copy of your Social Security card. If your name changed, include a marriage certificate or court document.
If You’re Approved
Your letter serves as a guide to your grant. If you set up direct deposit, funds transfer to your bank account. Otherwise, a check goes to your address on file.
Review the letter’s instructions on proper fund usage and required documentation.
The Appeals Process
You can appeal a FEMA decision if you disagree with the eligibility determination or assistance amount. This formal request asks FEMA to reconsider based on new or additional information.
The 60-Day Deadline
Submit your written appeal within 60 days of the date on your determination letter. This deadline is strict. If you have a compelling reason for missing it (hospitalization, another disaster), submit your appeal as soon as possible with a written explanation.
Writing Your Appeal Letter
A successful appeal is clear and well-documented. You can use an optional form if included with your letter, but a signed letter works fine.
Include this information:
Your full name, current mailing address, and phone number.
Your 9-digit FEMA application number and disaster number (example: DR-4892-WI) on every page. This information is at the top of your determination letter.
A clear opening statement: “I am writing to appeal the decision on my application for assistance.”
A detailed explanation of why the decision was incorrect. If appealing the assistance amount, explain why you need additional funds and provide documentation like contractor estimates or repair receipts.
Supporting documents (copies, not originals) such as contractor estimates, repair receipts, insurance letters, or other evidence not in your original application.
Your signature and date.
How to Submit Your Appeal
Online: Log into DisasterAssistance.gov and use the Upload Center to submit documents.
By mail: Send to FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.
By fax: Send to 800-827-8112. Include a cover sheet marked “Attention: FEMA.”
In person: Take your appeal to any open Disaster Recovery Center.
What Happens Next
A different specialist reviews your appeal. Check its status online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling the FEMA Helpline.
You should receive a final decision within 90 days. FEMA may contact you for more information or schedule a second property inspection. The appeal decision is final with no further level of review.
Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.