What Is FEMA and What Can It Do for You?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, is a government agency that coordinates disaster response, relief and recovery efforts. It is activated when local and state resources are overwhelmed by the impact of a disaster.

It was founded in 1979 via an executive order made by President Jimmy Carter and, in 2003, it was made part of the Department of Homeland Security.

FEMA coordinates within the federal government to prepare for and respond to disasters. It coordinates with officials in states, Tribal Nations and territories affected by disasters and helps them make requests for federal support.

When disastrous events occur, state and local offices must do a preliminary damage assessment and provide information to the federal government in order to have the event officially declared a disaster. All emergency and major disaster declarations must be made by the president. Once a major disaster is declared, FEMA is activated.

Major disasters are considered any event that causes sufficient, severe damage including:

FEMA is also activated for emergency events such as shootings or acts of terror — for example, FEMA provided an integral response to the Sept. 11 attacks.

The agency employs 20,000 workers and operates through Program Offices and Regional Offices throughout the country. It also hires temporarily when major disasters occur.

• Manages grant programs for recovery initiatives and research. 

• Provides disaster preparedness training and education to communities.

• Assists with rebuilding infrastructure damaged by disasters. 

In addition to aiding communities during a disaster, FEMA most directly provides people with financial assistance with repairs and other needs as a result of disasters.

Here are a list of current disasters and webpages FEMA set up to assist those affected:

When you apply for FEMA assistance, you’ll receive a determination letter. If you are considered “not approved” it doesn’t always mean you can’t receive help. Read the full letter, which may instruct how to appeal the determination and the information FEMA needs to continue processing your application. Additional information required might include insurance settlement documentation, a contractor estimate or proof of occupancy like a utility bill.

To appeal a determination, you must submit a signed letter that explains why you think you should still receive assistance. It should also include any supporting documents and an appeal form that was included with the letter. Add the following information printed on each page of your appeal:

• FEMA registration number. 

You have several options to submit an appeal, which must be done within 60 days of receiving your determination letter:

• Go to a Disaster Recovery Center to work with a FEMA specialist to upload your documents to your registration. 

• Upload your documents on DisasterAssistance.gov or the FEMA mobile app. 

• Send by mail to FEMA at P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

• Fax to 1-800-827-8112 marked Attn: FEMA. 

On its website, FEMA lists disaster declarations, news and contact information by region.

Here are a few other ways to contact FEMA:

Find out more information from FEMA: