FEMA Reminds That Federal Grant Money May be Only Used for Disaster Related Expenses

Nicholls Wind Ensemble to Premiere New Works at Regional Conference
December 7, 2021
Two Insurance Companies Fail Following Hurricane Ida
December 7, 2021
Nicholls Wind Ensemble to Premiere New Works at Regional Conference
December 7, 2021
Two Insurance Companies Fail Following Hurricane Ida
December 7, 2021

This holiday season, as Louisiana homeowners and renters continue to receive disaster funds, FEMA wants to remind you that federal grant money may only be used for disaster related expenses.  


Receiving Grant Money 

Once an application is complete, FEMA said it only takes them a few days to deposit the money into the bank account you provided. They would like to note that it will appear in your account under a banking code that may not say the word ‘FEMA’. You will also receive  a letter or email telling you the amount you are receiving and explaining how you can spend the money. 

Spend Grants Wisely 


  • Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses. Some examples of allowed expenses include:  
  • Home repairs (e.g., structure, water, septic and sewage systems) 
  • Rental assistance for rent and/or deposit 
  • Repair or replacement of an essential vehicle 
  • Medical or dental care for an uninsured injury caused by the disaster 
  • Necessary educational materials (e.g., computers, schoolbooks, supplies) 
  •  Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster 
  •  Replacement of essential personal property such as appliances or a bed from an occupied bedroom
  • Increased childcare expenses

Risks of Not Using Money as Intended 

Read your determination letter carefully. You will need to keep receipts for all expenses for at least three years, as disaster funding may be subject to review. If you have spent the payment on anything other than its intended purpose, you may be denied disaster assistance in the future. In some cases, FEMA warns they will ask that the money be returned and advises to keep in touch with them. 

Be sure FEMA has your most up-to-date contact information, including addresses, phone numbers and bank  accounts. If FEMA does not have the correct contact information, survivors may miss letters or phone calls about  their application for assistance or payment status.


For any questions, call the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone,  InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. 

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at  twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/