Following the recent approval of a Major Disaster Declaration, Benton County residents and businesses affected by the storms can now apply for federal disaster aid.

The aid will come in the form of grants from FEMA and disaster loans through the SBA.

“We don’t deal with disasters every day, but FEMA and the federal government do, and that disaster declaration means that the cavalry is basically on the way,” Benton County Judge Barry Moehring said at a press conference on Friday, May 31.

When applying for disaster aid, it’s typically best to proceed in this order:

1. File a claim with your insurance provider.

FEMA grants are for uninsured and underinsured losses, so you’ll need to prove that insurance won’t cover your damages.

2. Apply for FEMA funding.

FEMA offers grants that can help pay for temporary housing, emergency home repairs, uninsured property losses, and medical, dental, and funeral expenses related to disasters. There are three ways to apply:

Phone: 800-621-3362

Online: disasterassistance.gov

In-person: There are two local sites where you can get help with applications.

• FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center. Falling Springs Church Parking Lot, 21822 Falling Springs Rd, Decatur. Hours: 8:30 a.m.- 6:30 p.m. daily.

• FEMA Disaster Recovery Unit. Becky Paneitz “Student Center,” SC 108. 1211 SE Eagle Way in Bentonville, AR 72712. Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

3. Explore SBA disaster loan options.

For losses not covered by FEMA or insurance, the SBA provides low-interest disaster loans to both individuals and businesses. You must register with FEMA before applying for a loan. These loans are the “the largest source of federal recovery funds for disaster survivors and businesses,” according to the SBA.

There are three ways to apply for SBA Disaster Loans:

• Online: ww.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance

• Mail: Download the forms here.

• In-person: World Trade Center 3300 S Market St, Suite 400 in Rogers. Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. & Saturdays 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

More resources

• Local resources: A citizen-run spreadsheet has details on a limited number local assistance programs.

• State unemployment: The State of Arkansas provides unemployment assistance to people whose ability to earn income was impacted by the disaster.

• Local storm relief fund: The Benton County Relief Fund is offering financial assistance to households affected by recent storms and supporting local nonprofits with their disaster response efforts.