Homeowners and renters in nine Arkansas counties impacted by the severe storms and tornadoes on March 14-15 may now apply for federal disaster assistance through FEMA.
Residents in Greene, Hot Spring, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Sharp, and Stone counties who experienced storm-related damage could be eligible for financial aid. Assistance may cover temporary lodging, home repairs, personal property losses, and other critical disaster-related needs.
FEMA urges those with insurance to file claims with their providers first, as federal assistance cannot duplicate insurance coverage. Individuals whose policies do not fully cover their losses may then qualify for FEMA support under Disaster Declaration DR-4865-AR.
Applications can be submitted in several ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- Through the FEMA mobile app
- By calling 800-621-3362 (available daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT)
Applicants should have their insurance details, contact information, disaster address, Social Security number (if available), a list of damages, and banking information for direct deposit ready. In addition to FEMA grants, the U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits. For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4865 or follow FEMA Region 6 on social media.
