CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Mecklenburg and Swain County residents who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Tropical Storm Helene can now apply for FEMA disaster assistance, the agency announced on Saturday.
Through this, people can get help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other needs caused by Helene.
Households in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Clay, Cleveland, Gaston, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians are also authorized for assistance.
The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362.
What You’ll Need When You Apply, according to FEMA:
- 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.
- A general list of damage and losses.
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.
To view a video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
FEMA is encouraging those who have homeowners, renters’ or flood insurance to file a claim as soon as possible. If your insurance policy does not cover all disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
For the latest information about North Carolina’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4827.
For North Carolinians seeking general information, please visit ncdps.gov/helene.