Disaster Help Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. It’s free for homeowners and renters for up to 18 months of counseling.

Make sure you and your family are safe first. Once things are stable, reach out to a counselor. It’s a good first step on the road to recovery.

You are eligible for free counseling if you live in a place where a disaster has been officially declared by the state or federal government.

Go to DisasterAssistance.gov, click “Apply Now” at the top of the page, and enter your city or ZIP code. You’ll see if your county or parish is listed under “declared counties.” FEMA usually accepts applications for 60 days after a disaster is declared, but sometimes the deadline is extended.

No, housing counselors do not give out money or financial aid. They can help with applications, talk to creditors, and connect you to other resources that may be able to provide financial aid.

The first session usually lasts between 45 and 90 minutes. Follow-ups can be shorter or longer depending on what you need.

Housing counselors, approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), are trained and kind professionals here to help you with: 

• A personalized plan to help with your housing challenges
• Budgeting tips like managing bills and debt
• Applying for FEMA aid, filing insurance claims, and other support
• Talking to your landlord, mortgage company, and other providers
• Ongoing check-ins and guidance to help you get back on your feet

Yes. After a disaster has impacted your home and finances, you might qualify for things like a temporary pause in payments (called a forbearance), changes in your loan, or other support.

A housing counselor can explain your options and help you talk to your mortgage company. They’ll work with you to make a plan that fits your situation.

Find more information on how to stay in your home.

Unfortunately, yes — scams often increase after disasters. When people are stressed or in crisis, scammers try to take advantage. They might pretend to be from the government, offer fake help, or ask for money or personal information.

Here are a few red flags to watch for: 

• Someone asks you to pay upfront for help or promises guaranteed aid
• You’re pressured to act quickly or share personal details
• The person refuses to give you written information or proof of who they are 

If something feels off, trust your gut. You can always check with a housing counselor or visit our webpage about avoiding scams to learn how to spot and report scams.

It’s normal to hear a lot of different things after a disaster. But not everything you hear is true. Some misinformation can cause confusion or even stop people from getting the help they really need. 

Here are a few examples of common myths: 

• “You can’t get FEMA help if you have insurance.” (Not always true.)
• “You’ll lose your home if you ask for mortgage help.” (Also not true.)
• “Only homeowners can get disaster assistance.” (Renters can qualify too.) 

Before you act on something you’ve heard, check the facts. Ask a housing counselor to confirm what you hear. We have more clear, accurate information about scams here.

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s important to speak up. Reporting scams helps protect you and others in your community.

Here are places you can report disaster-related fraud or scams: 

• Fannie Mae Mortgage Fraud Report – If it involves your mortgage or housing help
• FEMA Fraud Report – For scams related to FEMA disaster aid
• National Center for Disaster Fraud – Call 1-866-720-5721
• Report fraud to credit bureaus or call 1-877-382-4357
• Your State Attorney General – You can also report scams to your state’s Attorney General or local law enforcement

If you’re unsure, a housing counselor can help guide you on what to do next.