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Department of Homeland Security

The Department of Homeland Security is the federal agency responsible for protecting the country from threats inside and along its borders. It brings together work on border security, immigration, disaster response, transportation safety, cybersecurity, and protecting national leaders. Its components partner with state and local governments and private industry, and its mission spans both everyday travel and major emergencies.

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October 8last updated

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Latest in Department of Homeland Security

Topics in Department of Homeland Security

Emergencies and cyber threats

The Federal Emergency Management Agency helps communities respond to and recover from disasters, and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency helps defend networks and vital services.

Travel and protection

The Transportation Security Administration screens travelers and protects transportation systems, and the U.S. Secret Service protects national leaders and investigates financial crimes.

All Articles on Department of Homeland Security

Understanding Your FEMA Determination Letter: What It Means and What to Do Next

After applying for federal disaster assistance, you will receive a determination letter from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Receiving this letter can be…

26 Min Read

FEMA Vehicle Damage Assistance: Eligibility, Limits, and How to Apply

When a disaster strikes, the loss of a vehicle can be devastating, cutting off access to work, school, medical care, and essential supplies. In…

25 Min Read

FEMA Child Care Assistance After Disasters: Eligibility and How to Apply

When a major disaster strikes, families face overwhelming challenges. Beyond the immediate needs for safety and shelter, the disruption to daily life creates immense…

33 Min Read

FEMA’s Maximum Grant Amount: What You Can Receive

When a major disaster strikes, the President of the United States can issue a Major Disaster Declaration, unlocking federal aid to support affected communities.…

24 Min Read

How to Replace Lost Documents After a Disaster

Losing your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind in a disaster is a devastating experience. The added burden of replacing essential documents,…

29 Min Read

FEMA Disaster Aid and Federal Benefits: Will Your Social Security or SNAP Be Affected?

After a disaster, your focus is on safety, shelter, and recovery. The last thing you should worry about is whether getting the help you…

27 Min Read

Is FEMA Assistance Taxable Income? What You Need to Know

When you're navigating the aftermath of a disaster, the last thing you need is confusion about your taxes. Financial assistance from the Federal Emergency…

22 Min Read

Disaster Recovery Centers: Your One-Stop Shop After a Disaster

When a major disaster strikes—a hurricane, wildfire, flood, or tornado—the path to recovery can seem overwhelming. Homes may be damaged or destroyed, essential documents…

30 Min Read

FEMA Identity and Ownership Verification: Required Documents and How to Prove Eligibility

When a disaster strikes, applying for federal aid through the Federal Emergency Management Agency is a critical step for many households on the road…

23 Min Read

FEMA Disaster Assistance for Immigrant Families with U.S. Citizen Children

When a presidentially declared disaster strikes, the immediate aftermath is a time of confusion, fear, and urgent need. For immigrant families, particularly those with…

23 Min Read