After a hurricane or major storm, knowing where to turn for help is critical. This guide covers every major federal and state assistance program available to Texas residents, plus how to protect yourself from contractor fraud during the recovery.
Apply for housing, personal property, and other disaster assistance
Low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses
State emergency management coordination and resources
Long-term housing recovery programs (CDBG-DR)
FEMA assistance is only available in counties included in the presidential disaster declaration. Check fema.gov for the current declaration.
Social Security number, address of damaged property, description of damage, insurance information, and bank account for direct deposit.
Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov, call 1-800-621-3362, or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Apply as soon as possible — there are deadlines.
Take photos and video of all damage. Keep receipts for emergency expenses and repairs. This documentation supports your application.
A FEMA inspector will contact you to schedule an inspection of the damage. Be available and show all damage.
Even if you don't want a loan, you must apply for an SBA loan to be considered for certain FEMA grants. Applying does not obligate you to accept a loan.
After every major Texas hurricane, unscrupulous contractors flood affected areas looking to exploit desperate homeowners. Contractor fraud is one of the most common post-disaster crimes. Know the warning signs:
• Verify contractor license at tdlr.texas.gov (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation)
• Check the Better Business Bureau at bbb.org
• Report fraud to the Texas Attorney General: 1-800-621-0508 or texasattorneygeneral.gov
• File a complaint with the Texas Department of Insurance: 1-800-578-4677
Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, call 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 1-800-462-7585), or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. You will need your Social Security number, address of the damaged property, insurance information, and bank account information for direct deposit. Apply as soon as possible after the disaster declaration.
FEMA individual assistance can cover temporary housing, essential home repairs to make your home safe and livable, replacement of essential personal property, medical and dental expenses caused by the disaster, and other serious disaster-caused needs. FEMA does not duplicate insurance benefits.
The U.S. Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits affected by declared disasters. Homeowners can borrow up to $500,000 to repair or replace their home. Renters and homeowners can borrow up to $100,000 for personal property. Business loans can reach $2 million. Interest rates are typically 1.75–4% for homeowners.
The Texas General Land Office (GLO) administers federal Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds for long-term housing recovery. The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) coordinates state disaster response. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission provides food and medical assistance. 211 Texas connects residents to local social services.
Get multiple written estimates before hiring any contractor. Never pay the full amount upfront — a deposit of 10–30% is typical. Verify the contractor's license at the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Avoid contractors who appear unsolicited (storm chasers). Get everything in writing, including the scope of work, materials, timeline, and total cost. Report fraud to the Texas Attorney General at 1-800-621-0508.
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