Wisconsin Emergency Management Press Release: One month left to apply for federal assistance for July 27 storms and tornadoes

For Immediate Release
Contact: dmawempio@widma.gov

MADISON, Wis. – Individuals and households impacted by storms and tornadoes on July 27, 2026, have one month remaining to apply for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance or U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) physical disaster loan. Disaster survivors in Forest, Outagamie, Vilas, and Winnebago are urged to apply by Dec. 7, 2026.

If you are an eligible homeowner or renter for FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program in one of the designated counties, there are three ways to apply.

It is important to submit your FEMA application before the deadline, even if you are still waiting to hear back from your insurance company because missing the deadline could put your chance of receiving federal assistance at risk. You do not need to wait for your insurance settlement. You can apply to FEMA while your insurance claim is pending, but keep in mind that FEMA needs a copy of your insurance settlement or denial before your application for disaster assistance can be considered. By law, FEMA cannot pay for costs that your insurance covers.

If you still have unmet needs after receiving your insurance settlement and applying with FEMA, loans may help address this need. The SBA has home physical disaster loans that can go towards home repair or replacement, damaged real estate, personal property and vehicles.

The SBA also has business physical disaster loans available in designated counties. These loans may be used to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by homeowners or businesses, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches and private universities are also eligible. To apply for SBA or for questions,

• Visit online at SBA.gov/disaster.
• Call: 800-659-2955 (TTY: 800-877-8339).
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center near you, head to fema.gov/drc.

If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed and need someone to talk to, the Disaster Distress Helpline offers free, 24/7, confidential, multilingual emotional support. Call or text 800-985-5990.

About Wisconsin Emergency Management

Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) is a division of the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs. Its mission is to build capabilities and coordinate resources to support a safe and resilient Wisconsin. Through planning, training and exercising WEM prepares themselves, Wisconsinites, and response personnel to minimize the loss of lives and property. Visit wem.wi.gov for more information.

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