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FEMA Rental Assistance Available

Published: 08-17-2026 | Category: General

FEMA Rental Assistance is available to eligible Louisiana renters and homeowners who cannot live in their homes because of damage caused by Tropical Storm Arthur from June 17-24. It’s important to spend money you receive only on approved rental costs and to save all receipts.

  • What Is Rental Assistance?
  • FEMA Rental Assistance is a temporary grant for homeowners and renters to pay for somewhere to live while they repair or rebuild their home. You can use this money to rent a place to live such as a house, apartment, recreational vehicle or other option while your home is repaired, or while you look for a new place to live.
    • Who is Eligible for FEMA Rental Assistance?
  • Homeowners, renters and students may be eligible if you are from one of the following parishes: Avoyelles, Lafourche, Pointe Coupee, St. Landry, St. Tammany and Terrebonne.
    • What Does Rental Assistance Cover?
  • Rental Assistance covers temporary housing while you are unable to live in your permanent residence.
  • Rental Assistance can be used for rent, security deposits and the cost of essential utilities (gas, water and electric).
    • What Rental Assistance NOT Cover
  • Rental Assistance does not cover internet or cable television services.
  • Rental Assistance does not cover replacing personal property including lost food or clothing.
  • Rental Assistance does not cover home repairs or transportation and fuel costs.
    • How Long Does Rental Assistance Support Me?
  • The initial Rental Assistance grant is decided on a case-by-case basis and covers one to two months.
  • If you receive initial Rental Assistance, you will be sent an application for Continued Temporary Housing Assistance, which may be granted for three-month periods.
  • To qualify for continued rental assistance you will need receipts and other documentation showing your previous rental assistance funds were used appropriately.
    • What if I Have Insurance?
  • Your insurance may have benefits for temporary housing. Your insurance company will give you a claim settlement, proof of exhaustion or denial document that includes Additional Living Expenses loss of use. You’ll need to provide this documentation from the insurance company to FEMA to determine your eligibility for Rental Assistance.
    • How to Apply for FEMA Assistance
  • To receive FEMA Rental Assistance, apply for FEMA disaster assistance. You have until Thursday, Oct. 1, to apply. Here’s how:
  • The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You may also use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for the service. 
  • You may also visit any Disaster Recovery Center. To find one close to you, use your ZIP code to search FEMA.gov/DRC.
  • To watch an accessible video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).