01/13/2025 | Press release | Archived content
FEMA is still on the ground helping survivors from Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties recover from Tropical Storm Helene.
Document Processing Centers are open in Carter, Johnson and Unicoi counties. Survivors can visit a center to turn in documents and follow up on applications and appeals. No new applications will be taken without a qualifying reason. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, closed weekends and for severe weather.
Locations:
FEMA Individual Assistance specialists are continuing to call survivors to follow up on their applications for assistance. You may get a call because FEMA needs important documents or to clarify what kinds of assistance you may qualify for. That's why it's important for you to keep your address and contact information updated. You can contact FEMA, update information or check the status of applications one of three ways:
FEMA offers a simple process to justify a late application, ensuring eligible people receive the help they need. You may request a late application in writing or over the phone by calling 800-621-3362. FEMA will accept late applications for an additional 60 days.
FEMA mitigation specialists are available to offer free tips and advice on repairing and rebuilding damaged properties from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday - Friday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, until Saturday, Jan. 18 at these locations:
FEMA and the State of Tennessee are working to ensure that survivors have safe, functional housing and temporary housing solutions are becoming available to eligible households. FEMA may cover housing needs for up to 18 months until April 2026 for survivors in the following six counties: Carter, Cocke, Greene, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington. For more information, visit Direct Temporary Housing Assistance May Provide Options for Disaster Survivors | FEMA.gov.
The SBA offers low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online at SBA.gov/disaster, or call SBA's Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is March 9. The deadline to return economic injury applications is June 30.
Free legal services are available to Tennesseans who can't afford an attorney for disaster-related issues. Please call 844-HELP4TN (844-435-7486); messages can be left around the clock.