FEMA assistance may be available to help with rent

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

KANSAS CITY, Mo., (KBSI) — Missouri residents in Bollinger, Butler, Cape Girardeau, Carter, Cooper, Dunklin, Howell, Iron, Mississippi, New Madrid, Oregon, Ozark, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Vernon, Washington and Wayne counties affected by the March 30–April 8 disaster may be eligible for FEMA assistance with rent.

Residents whose primary home was unsafe to occupy due to disaster-related damage and who had to temporarily relocate may apply for FEMA assistance to help pay for alternate housing.

Homeowners and renters seeking rental assistance must contact FEMA. Requests can be made by:

First applying for FEMA assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov

Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 (If using a relay service such as VRS, applicants should provide their relay number.)

Sending a written request to: FEMA, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

FEMA must conduct a home inspection to verify reported damage before assistance can be approved.

Approved applicants may receive an initial rental award covering up to two months of rent. Rental assistance may help pay monthly rent, including a security deposit, but may not cover all expenses.

Residents already receiving FEMA rental assistance who need additional support while working toward a permanent housing plan should remain in contact with FEMA. Continued Temporary Housing Assistance may be available for those who qualify.

The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is Dec. 22, 2025.

The fastest way to apply is at Home | disasterassistance.gov. Applications are also accepted by phone at 1-800-621-3362.