FEMA Reminds Residents Impacted by Kona Earthquake: Help Continues After Registration Deadline

HONOLULU - The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance (IA) for the May 22, 2026, Kona Earthquake has passed. However, FEMA and its partners want impacted residents in Hawaiʻi County to know that support continues, and, in some circumstances, late applications may still be considered.

Late Applications May Be Accepted

If you were impacted by the Kona Earthquake but were unable to apply for FEMA assistance prior to the deadline due to extenuating circumstances, you may be able to file a late application.

To request consideration for a late application:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 or visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Explain why you were unable to apply before the deadline
• Be prepared to provide any supporting information FEMA may request

Late registrations are considered case by case and are not guaranteed. FEMA will review each request in accordance with applicable policies and notify applicants of the decision.

Next Steps for Applicants

FEMA continues to process applications submitted before the deadline. Applicants should:

1. Watch for FEMA Letters and Notifications

• FEMA will send a letter or online notification explaining what assistance has been approved or what additional information is needed.
• Read all letters carefully and follow any instructions provided.

2. Respond to Requests for Information

• If FEMA asks for documents such as proof of occupancy, ownership, identity, or insurance decisions, send them as soon as possible.
• Documents can be uploaded at DisasterAssistance.gov, submitted via the FEMA mobile app, mailed or faxed as directed.

3. Prepare for Possible Inspections

• If you reported home damage, a FEMA inspector may contact you to schedule a visit. Inspectors will:
  • Show official FEMA photo ID, and
  • Never ask for money or payment of any kind.

Calls from an inspector may come from an out-of-state area code. If you miss a call or appointment, contact FEMA to reschedule.

4. Understand Your Right to Appeal

• If you receive a decision letter and disagree with the outcome, you have 60 days from the date of the letter to submit a written appeal.
• Your appeal should explain why you believe the decision is incorrect and include any supporting documentation.

SBA Low-Interest Disaster Loans and Other Assistance

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofits for repairs and replacement of disaster-damaged property. SBA will accept applications within 60 days of the filing deadline.

SBA disaster loans have very favorable terms with fixed low interest rates and automatic 12-month payment deferment with 0% interest for the first 12 months.

To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may call SBA's Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email [email protected] for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

Insurance remains a key part of recovery:

• Impacted residents should continue working with their insurance companies and send FEMA any updated settlement or denial letters.

If you do not qualify for FEMA assistance, state and local resources may also be available. State and county agencies, as well as local non-profit and faith-based organizations, continue to provide support such as cleanup help, supplies, and other services. To learn more about state resources visit ready.hawaii.gov or call 211.

Stay in Touch with FEMA

Applicants should keep their information current:

• Update FEMA if your phone number, mailing address, email, or insurance information changes.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, or use the FEMA mobile app to review your case or make updates.
• If you use a relay service, such as video relay or captioned telephone, please provide FEMA with the number for that service when you call.

FEMA remains committed to working with the State of Hawaiʻi, Hawaiʻi County, and local partners to support residents impacted by the Kona Earthquake as they continue their recovery.