Recovering Financially After a Natural Disaster
A guide to resources to help you recover from a natural disaster such as a flood, earthquake, or wildfire.
Emergency Financial Assistance
After a natural disaster, nonprofits and government agencies may be available to assist. It may take some work to apply, but it may be worth it if you qualify for assistance.
- FEMA Assistance
Details on applying for federal disaster assistance through FEMA. - Washington State Disaster Assistance
Information on Washington State disaster assistance. - Washington FEMA
Information about current disaster declarations and resources.
Insurance Claims
If your home, car, or other property was damaged you will need to file an insurance claim.
- How to file an auto insurance claim
Information for Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. - How to file a homeowner insurance claim
Information from the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. - For more help, contact the Washington State Insurance Consumer Hotline at 800-562-6900
Homeowners and Renters
While damage to your home doesn't mean you stop paying your mortgage, there may be options to help you make or change your payments.
If you are a renter and your apartment or home is damaged, there may be emergency housing available.
- If I can't pay my mortgage loan, what are my options?
Information from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. - Possible sheltering and housing assistance for disaster survivors
Information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Deferring Student Loan Payments
If you work or live in a federally-declared disaster area and have a federal student loan, you may be able to delay your payments.
-
If you have a student loan, you may be eligible to defer your payments
Information from the U.S. Department of Education.
Working with Credit Card Companies and Other Lenders
If the disaster has impacted your ability to make a payment, contact your lender. Some companies will waive interest and late fees; others may allow you to stretch out or pause monthly payments.
- What should I do if I can't pay my credit card bills?
Information from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Avoiding Scams and Fraud
Scammers tend to come out after a natural disaster. Be sure to have your guard up.
- Avoiding scams after a natural disaster
Information from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Additional Resources
Washington Emergency Management Division
Individual and Small Business Assistance