How to apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Helene

Homeowners and renters in the following counties are eligible to apply for FEMA help: 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.

Gov. Roy Cooper said Tuesday that more than 57,000 people have applied for FEMA individual aid and said some have already received funds to begin repairing their homes and property. 

FEMA funding can be used to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary housing, basic home repair costs, personal property loss and other disaster-caused needs. 

There are multiple ways to apply for FEMA assistance in North Carolina for Hurricane Helene recovery. 

FEMA’s disaster assistance offers new benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors. In addition, the agency has implied the process and expanded eligibility that allows North Carolinians impacted by Helene a wider range of assistance and funds for serious needs. 

If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster needs, you may be eligible for federal assistance.