INDIANA — Federal disaster assistance for Hoosiers recovering from severe August storms and flooding has topped $111 million, according to the latest recovery update released by state and federal officials under major disaster declaration DR-4933-IN.
As of late September, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has provided more than $111 million in Individual Assistance to support over 26,800 Indiana households. Additionally, the National Flood Insurance Program has paid out more than $15.4 million to policyholders suffering water damage.
With the application deadline set for October 25, 2026, disaster response officials are urging impacted residents and local government entities across newly designated counties to submit claims and register for federal aid.
Individual Assistance Expanded to Additional Counties
Homeowners and renters in Cass, Pike, and Putnam counties are now eligible to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance. These areas join 21 previously authorized Indiana counties eligible for federal grants.
FEMA assistance can cover a range of recovery needs, including:
- Temporary Lodging & Rental Assistance: Support for residents whose homes are unsafe to live in following the August floods.
- Basic Home Repairs: Funds to help restore disaster-damaged primary residences.
- Mold Remediation: Limited funding to address mold growth caused by floodwaters.
- Personal Property & Serious Needs: Coverage for disaster-caused losses, medical expenses, or essential household items.
Residents can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, or visit an in-person, one-stop assistance center. Locations for in-person support can be found at on.in.gov/August2026Disaster.
Public Assistance Grant Program Opens for Municipalities
Federal aid has also expanded to help local governments and qualifying non-profit organizations rebuild infrastructure.
Carroll, Cass, Fountain, Grant, Marion, Morgan, Parke, Pike, Pulaski, Putnam, Randolph, Rush, Starke, Union, Vermillion, and Warren counties are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance. The grant program reimburses local entities for emergency protective measures, debris removal, and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public facilities.
The state of Indiana will conduct applicant briefings to guide local officials through the application process. The deadline for these newly added counties to apply for Public Assistance is October 24, 2026.
Key Reminders for Applicants
- Answer Unknown Calls: Within ten days of applying, a FEMA inspector may call to schedule a property assessment. Inspector phone numbers often display as out-of-state, private, or “unavailable”. Missing these calls can delay or halt application processing.
- Review Determination Letters: Applicants will receive a formal letter from FEMA detailing their eligibility status. Applicants who disagree with a decision have 60 days from the date of the letter to submit an appeal.
- Keep Contact Details Updated: Applicants can track case progress or update contact information by calling 800-621-3362 or accessing their online profile.
