FEMA Can Help Self-Employed Louisianans

If you're self-employed and your tools or other job-related equipment were damaged by Tropical Storm Arthur from June 17-24, FEMA may be able to help with repair or replacement. Federal assistance is available to eligible residents of Avoyelles, Lafourche, Pointe Coupee, St. Landry, St. Tammany and Terrebonne parishes.

• If you're self-employed, FEMA may be able to repair or replace disaster-damaged essential tools, supplies and equipment. You may need to demonstrate a need for the item. Some common examples of covered items include:
  • Tools such as drills, saws, power tools, welding machines and other machinery.
  • Specialized items for performance or study such as costumes, lighting or research equipment.
  • Technology, computer or equipment used for photography/videography, creating animation or music recording.
  • Artistic materials and supplies such as paint, wood, canvas and textiles.

Does FEMA help with business losses?

• No, FEMA can only help you with items you need for self-employment. If you employ other people, you are considered a business. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can provide loans for disaster business losses, including farms.

How do I apply?

• If you live in one of the six parishes designated for Individual Assistance, the deadline to apply is Oct. 1. You may reach out to FEMA about what documents to submit if you are self-employed and need repair or replacement of work items.
  • The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov
  • You may also use the FEMA mobile app
  • Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open 24 hours, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service. Helpline specialists speak many languages. Press 2 for Spanish.
  • To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit What You Need to Know Before Applying for FEMA Assistance.

For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4927. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.