Disaster Assistance

How does Disaster Assistance work with the NFIP?

When a disaster is declared, individuals with a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy can file a claim for flood damage covered under their policy, but they may also be eligible to apply for additional federal disaster assistance from FEMA to cover uncovered expenses like temporary housing or other needs, provided they meet eligibility criteria; essentially, the NFIP provides insurance coverage for flood damage, while disaster assistance can help with other related costs not covered by the insurance policy.

While both are related to disaster recovery, the NFIP is primarily an insurance program that pays for direct flood damage, while disaster assistance from FEMA can provide additional financial support for other disaster-related expenses like temporary housing, vehicle repairs, or personal needs.

In many cases, having an active NFIP policy is a requirement to qualify for certain types of federal disaster assistance. If a flood occurs, you would first file a claim with your NFIP insurance provider for covered flood damage. Then, if you have additional eligible needs not covered by the insurance, you can apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Disaster Assistance Requirements

FEMA regulations require applicants who receive FEMA assistance to purchase flood insurance for future flood damage to any insurable property.

This requirement applies only to the building and personal property that is, or will be, in a designated Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) that can be insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

For purposes of Individuals and Housing Program (IHP) assistance this includes Home Repair, Replacement, Permanent Housing Construction, or Personal Property.

Applicants who live in a designated SFHA and receive IHP Assistance for Home Repair, Replacement, Permanent Home Construction, or Personal Property must purchase and maintain flood insurance coverage for at least the amount of disaster assistance they receive from FEMA, if it is available.

Flood insurance coverage must be maintained at the address for as long as the address exists and for at least the assistance amount awarded for flood-damaged, NFIP-insurable losses. If the home is sold or otherwise becomes owned by someone else, the requirement to purchase and maintain flood insurance carries over to any future owner.

Applicants who do not purchase and maintain flood insurance will be ineligible for IHP Assistance for flood-damaged real or personal property in future disasters with flood-related damage.

FEMA assistance is not meant to replace insurance.

This page contains information about the NFIP. Find more NFIP Resources.