What is the maximum duration for which Housing Assistance can be provided after a disaster?

Housing Assistance provided by FEMA after a disaster is aimed at addressing the immediate needs of individuals and families affected by the event. The maximum duration for which this assistance can be offered is 18 months. This period is designed to give survivors enough time to recover, find permanent housing, and stabilize their living conditions in the aftermath of a disaster.

FEMA's policy recognizes that recovery is a process that can take time, and extending assistance for 18 months allows individuals and families to rebuild their lives without undue pressure. It's important to note that this duration may not be for continuous support without any review; assistance is evaluated periodically to ensure it meets the ongoing needs of the disaster survivors.

This rule reflects FEMA's commitment to aiding recovery while also encouraging residents to seek long-term housing solutions. Other durations listed, such as 6 months, 12 months, or 24 months, do not align with the federal guidelines established for Housing Assistance under the Individual Assistance program.