FAQ: Housing Assistance Following the October 2025 Alaska West Coast Storms

1. How do I apply for FEMA disaster assistance?

You can apply:

• By calling the Alaska Call Center at 1-866-342-1699
  • 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday
  • Yup'ik interpreters are available 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday
• Online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov
• By using the FEMA App and submitting your application directly through the app.

2. What types of assistance does FEMA provide?

FEMA may provide help with temporary housing, home repairs, replacement of personal property and other serious disaster-related needs. Assistance is based on your eligibility and the type of damage you experienced.

3. How does FEMA determine if I am eligible for assistance?

FEMA reviews your application and if needed conducts an inspection of your home to assess the disaster-related damage. Eligibility is based on the extent of home damage and your specific needs.

4. What happens if my property is not accessible for inspection?

If local officials have verified your home damage, you may qualify for immediate financial assistance, such as funds to cover personal property losses or help with securing short-term housing. Once your property is accessible, FEMA may conduct a home inspection, which could make you eligible for additional assistance for repairs or replacement of your damaged home.

5. How long does it take to hear from FEMA after my inspection?

FEMA is working quickly to contact applicants. You should hear from someone in the coming days. You can check your status or ask questions by calling the Alaska call center at 866-342-1699 to speak with a FEMA representative.

6. When will I receive funds, and what can I use them for?

Funds are provided after your eligibility is confirmed and the type of assistance is determined. You can use FEMA funds for eligible disaster-related expenses such as repairs, temporary housing or replacing essential items. Keep all receipts and records of how you spend the funds. You will receive a letter that explains eligible uses for the funds.

7. Why are some people receiving funds while others are not?

FEMA assistance depends on individual eligibility, the type and extent of damage and the timing of inspections or documentation. If you have questions about your application, you can visit the Bethel Assistance Hub, call the Alaska call center to speak with a FEMA representative for help or call the FEMA Helpline.

8. Can I start home repairs myself and still get FEMA assistance?

Yes. If you receive home repair funds, you can begin repairs. If your repair costs are higher than the amount FEMA provided, you can submit an appeal for additional funds. For guidance on how to appeal, call the Alaska Call Center or visit the Bethel Assistance Hub.

9. I have FEMA home repair funds available, but I can't start repairs right now. Can I wait to use my funds?

Yes, you can wait to use your FEMA funds. The money you receive is intended for eligible home repairs, and you are not required to spend it immediately. Sometimes, FEMA may authorize additional home repair programs that can either supplement your existing funds or provide alternative assistance if you are unable to use your original funds to repair or replace your home. If additional programs become available, FEMA will notify eligible applicants. Remember to keep all receipts and documentation when you do begin repairs.

10. What if I received less money than I need for repairs?

If you receive less than the maximum award for home repairs ($44,800), you can appeal for additional funds if you have documentation showing your eligible repair cost is higher than the funds FEMA provided. Receipts, contractor estimates and any other supporting documents should be included with your appeal. If you receive less than the maximum award for other needs, you can appeal for additional funds. For guidance on how to submit an appeal, call the Alaska Call Center, visit the Bethel Assistance Hub or call the FEMA Helpline.

11. What should I do if I need more help or have questions?

To get help, you can:

• Call the Alaska Call Center at 1-866-342-1699 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and
  10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
  • Yup'ik interpreters are available from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday.
• Visit the Bethel Assistance Hub (BAH) located at: AVCP Tugkar Building, 570 3rd Ave., Bethel, AK 99559.
  Hours are 10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
  1. Small Business Administration

SBA offers low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, nonprofits and businesses. Homeowners and renters may qualify to repair or replace their home or personal property. Businesses and nonprofits can also apply for physical damage loans -- including loss of income.

Apply for an SBA Disaster Loan online at sba.gov/disaster, by calling 1-800-659-2955 or visit one of the two Disaster Loan Outreach Centers, located at the Bethel City Hall at 300 Chief Eddie Hoffman Hwy. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or at the University of Alaska at 1901 Bragaw St., Anchorage, AK 99508. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Feb. 20 is the deadline to apply with SBA for a low-interest loan for physical property damage.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished impartially, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA's Civil Rights Office can be contacted at [email protected] or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

FEMA's mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.