If you've been displaced by a hurricane that damaged your home, or were subject to a mandatory evacuation, here are some ways to help you locate temporary housing.

What to do:

• Find immediate emergency shelter

• Apply for FEMA assistance

• Look for continued assistance

• Seek out alternative options if necessary

Immediate Emergency Shelter

In the immediate aftermath of a hurricane, you can find emergency shelters using the FEMA mobile app. The Red Cross also offers shelters for evacuees, and you can find nearby open shelters using their online map.

Apply for FEMA’s temporary housing assistance

If a federal disaster is declared, you can apply for FEMA assistance by going to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app, calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, or in person at a Disaster Recovery Center.

FEMA offers several types of housing support for eligible applicants in the wake of a disaster including:

• Serious Needs Assistance (a one-time payment for emergency expenses like evacuation costs, gas, food, diapers, etc.)

• Rental Assistance (money to rent housing)

• Lodging Expense Reimbursement (for emergency expenses like hotels)

• Short-term Displacement Assistance

• Temporary Housing Units when rental properties aren't available

Displacement Assistance may be available, which allows FEMA to pay directly to participating hotels and motels to cover your short-term accommodations.

You may qualify for FEMA housing assistance even if you're staying with friends or family, or in a non-traditional housing situation. We always recommend applying, even if you're not sure you'll qualify.

For Continued Assistance

If you've received temporary housing assistance from FEMA but still need help, you must complete this Declaration of Continuing Need for Rental Assistance form. Hurricane survivors can receive up to 18 months of Continued Rental Assistance.

Alternative Options

Outside of a federal disaster declaration, there are often state and local options that may also help out residents looking for housing. 

• Contact your local housing authorities

• Check with nonprofit organizations specializing in disaster relief

• Reach out to religious organizations that may offer support

• Look into state-specific disaster housing programs