Storm Recovery Resources
Slides, resources and the recording from the Winter Storm Webinar on Feb. 26 are available. Click HERE.
Texans have endured a traumatic weather crisis on top of an ongoing health and economic crisis. Already financially vulnerable, many Texans will be targetted by scammers pretending to be government employees, creditors, mortgage servicers, insurance adjusters and contractors. Be alert to potential scams!
Scam Alert: Home Repair Fraud
- How to Avoid Post-Storm Contractor Scams, RAISE Texas
- Home Repair Fraud | Español | Vietnamese, Lone Star Legal Aid
- Social Media Posts & Flyers to Warn Consumers about Scams, Texas Department of Insurance
- If you encounter disaster scams, call the Texas Attorney General at (800) 621-0508 or file a complaint.
Renter's Rights after a Disaster
- Renter's Rights after a Disaster | Español, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
- More on Renter's Rights| Español | Vietnamese, Lone Star Legal Aid
- Information for Hotel/Motel Residents and When Eviction Protections Apply, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
- See below on filing a claim if you have renter's insurance, applying for FEMA, and low-interest loans available for renters from the Small Business Administration.
Local Resources
Financial Assistance
If you sustained damage from snow and ice during the winter storms and you have insurance, contact your insurance company first and then FEMA. If you are uninsured, apply for FEMA assistance. Note: FEMA cannot reimburse you for food lost due to a power failure. However, your community may be able to help. Call 211 for assistance.
Insurance Claims
- Steps to File Insurance Claim | Español | Vietnamese, Lone Star Legal Aid
- FAQ: Homeowners Insurance and Disaster Claims, Texas Department of Insurance
FEMA Assistance
- The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance for recovery from this disaster is April 20, 2021.
- If a client is in need of immedate assistance, Critical Needs Assistance from FEMA can be up to $500. In the initial FEMA application, a question asks if the applicant is in need of immediate assistance. The applicant must click YES for that question. No further documentation is required.
- Before you apply for FEMA assistance:
- Take photos of your damaged home and belongings and make a list of damaged items.
- If you have insurance, first file a claim with your insurance company, then apply for FEMA.
- Now you are ready to apply any of these ways: Internet or Smartphone app; phone 1-800-621-3362; TTY 800-462-7585; 711/VRS 1-800-621-3362; by mail, fax or in-person.
- Helpful Info on FEMA:
- What Can FEMA do for me?, Lone Star Legal Aid
- Figuring out FEMA, CUP & ProBono Net (consumer-friendly guide!)
- Immigrant Eligibility for Disaster Benefits | Español | Vietnamese, Lone Star Legal Aid
Renter, Homeowner & Small Business Loans
- SBA disaster loans are for small businesses, nonprofits, homeowners, and renters experiencing financial hardship due to a disaster. These low-interest loans may help cover a gap in insurance coverage or provide a financial bridge until insurance funds are dispersed.
- For SBA loans, applicants DO NOT have to wait for any insurance claims to fully settle.
- Personal Property: Renters and homeowners may borrow up to $40,000 to repair or replace clothing, furniture, cars or appliances damaged or destroyed in the disaster.
- Residence: Homeowners may apply for up to $200,000 to repair or replace their primary residence to its pre-disaster condition.
- Small Business Loans: Physical Disaster Loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans, Small Business Administration
- Deadlines vary depending on the type of loan. Apply immediately. Do not wait to hear back on claims submitted to your insurance company.
- Get Help: Visit the SBA disaster assistance website or contact the SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Center at (800) 659-2955.
- 3-Step Process to Apply for Disaster Loan | Proceso de tres pasos: Préstamos para desastres , Small Business Administration
