U.S. Mortgage Index

Disaster assistance

Definition

Disaster assistance is the broader set of help that may be available after a disaster, including federal, state, local, or insurance aid. FEMA assistance is one official federal path, not the whole category.

In plain English

After a fire, flood, or storm, a homeowner may look for several kinds of help. Disaster assistance is the umbrella name for that help. FEMA Individual Assistance is one federal program inside the umbrella. Mortgage forbearance is a servicing option, not a grant program.

Technical definition

FEMA’s official Individual Assistance page is PRIMARY for the federal assistance identity. CFPB’s forbearance heading is supporting consumer context for mortgage hardship after a disaster, not a second assistance program.

Why it matters

Borrowers often treat every disaster payment as FEMA aid. This page keeps the broader category and the FEMA program distinct.

Sources reviewed

Important note

Do not list current disaster declarations or grant amounts.