Homeowners and renters in Jefferson [and Rock] County can now apply for federal disaster assistance related to severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in April 2026. This comes after President Donald Trump approved a Federal Disaster Declaration for Wisconsin. [Walworth County is not yet included in the declaration; the FEMA website indicates that applications may still be submitted and would be processed if the county is included later.]

The fastest way to apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Individual Assistance program is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. If you can’t apply online, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service, or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

If you were visited by a FEMA assessment team in May or previously reported damage to your home to Jefferson County Emergency Management or your municipality, you must still go to DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA Helpline to apply for federal assistance.

If you have homeowners, renters, or flood insurance, you should file a claim before applying for FEMA assistance. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all of your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

When applying for assistance, make sure:

• Your damaged home is your primary residence.
• You haven’t received assistance for the same losses from another source, including insurance.
• You can be reached by FEMA at the contact information you provide in the application.

What information do you need to provide when applying:

• Your contact information, including email address.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security number.
• Annual household income
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information, if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, your policy number or the agent and/or company name.

For help with your application or to apply by phone, call the FEMA Helpline:

• 800‑621‑3362
• If you use a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone (CTS), or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

The deadline to apply for Individual Assistance is August 31, 2026.

For more information on the disaster assistance process, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or visit the site’s Frequently Asked Questions page at https://www.disasterassistance.gov/help/faqs.

Editor’s comment: This press release was provided by the Jefferson County Emergency Management Department.