In order to qualify for disaster assistance, victims must apply online or by phone to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Apply online by visiting www.fema.gov and clicking on “Online Individual Assistance Center” or call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). In addition to having a pen and paper, have this information ready to give to the person who takes your call:

. Your Social Security number.

. A description of your losses that were caused by the disaster.

. Insurance information.

. Directions to your damaged property.

. A telephone number where you can be contacted.

If you have questions after you have applied for assistance or if the information you provided has changed, call the FEMA help line at 800-621-3362. When you call, have your application number ready. This number will be given to you when you apply.

After completing your application, you may be eligible for a number of federal assistance programs.

For instance, FEMA provides disaster victims with immediate assistance, such as temporary housing, funds for home repairs, clothing and other household items, fuels to operate a primary heat source, moving and storage expenses, and other items determined appropriate in the disaster area.

The Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Program, if triggered by the federal government, provides low-interest, below-market-rate loans to disaster victims to repair structures, build new structures, clean up damage and mitigate against future disasters.

Source: U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe’s office