After a disaster happens, the Iowa governor can issue a state disaster declaration for a county or group of counties. The governor will often do this if the damage affected a lot of people. The governor can also make the Iowa Individual Disaster Assistance Grant Program available to help people in that county.
What kind of help can I get?
For disasters declared after July 1, 2024, each eligible household may receive up to $7,000 for items that qualify under one of the four categories: temporary housing, food assistance, personal property, and home repair. Supporting documentation is required. You will need to show proof of your identity. You will need to fill out an application that includes proof of your household income and an itemized list of damages incurred from the disaster. This application must be submitted 45 days following the Governor’s declaration of the disaster.
What is not covered?
You cannot get grant money for items that are replaced or repairs that are made that are later covered by insurance or another grant program, like FEMA. If you receive this grant money and your insurance company or another funding agency later reimburses you for the same cost, this is called a duplication of benefits. You will then need to repay the State of Iowa back.
Who is eligible?
All legal US residents whose household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level are eligible to apply. The maximum yearly income, based on family size for 2026, is:
1 $31,920
2 $43,280
3 $54,640
4 $66,000
5 $77,360
6 $88,720
7 $100,080
8 $111,440
How can I apply?
You can find the application at https://homelandsecurity.iowa.gov/assistance/. The application may also be downloaded in PDF format and filled out. You can email applications to IndividualDisasterAssistance@iowa.gov, or mail them to ATTN: Individual Disaster Assistance Program 7900 Hickman Road Suite 500 Windsor Heights, IA 50324.
What if I am found ineligible for the program or I do not agree with the amount I am awarded?
You will receive a written decision from the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management that will either find you eligible or not eligible for the program. The written decision will also tell you how much money you have been given. If you do not agree, you have the right to request a reconsideration. You have 30 days from the date on the denial letter to request a reconsideration. You may submit your written request for reconsideration by submitting a detailed request to: Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management 7900 Hickman Road Suite 500 Windsor Heights, IA 50324 Or via email to IndividualDisasterAssistance@iowa.gov If you need assistance filing a request for reconsideration, ask your disaster case advocate.
Iowa Legal Aid has designed a mobile app to help people by providing tools to prepare in advance for a disaster and for people who are experiencing the effects of a disaster. Click here to learn more.