(Stillwater, OK) – All residents, homeowners and renters, affected by the March wildfires and straight-line winds are urged to apply for federal assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA), even if they have insurance.

 

More than 40% of eligible Payne County residents have not yet applied, despite the wide range of assistance available. Individuals who sustained damage to homes, vehicles, mobile homes, travel trailers, or personal property between March 14 and March 21, 2025, are encouraged to act now.

 

Registering with FEMA and SBA isn’t just about immediate help – it can also open the door to future programs. Residents are encouraged to apply even if they believe they will not qualify.

 

Key Facts:

  • FEMA assistance is available for under-insured or uninsured necessary expenses and serious needs. Eligible households may receive up to $43,600 in financial grants.
  • FEMA support may include rental assistance (up to 18 months), home repairs, temporary housing, medical and dental costs, transportation, moving and storage, childcare, and other disaster-related expenses.
  • SBA Disaster Loans can help cover losses not addressed by insurance or FEMA. Homeowners may be eligible for up to $500,000 for real estate and $100,000 for personal property at low interest rates.
  • Renters, homeowners, and even those with insurance coverage should still apply to FEMA and SBA.
  • Denied or underfunded FEMA applicants have the right to appeal within 60 days. Historically, about 70% of appeals result in additional assistance.
  • The deadline to apply for: 

o   SBA assistance: July 21, 2025

o   FEMA assistance: July 22, 2025

 

Residents affected by the March wildfires are encouraged to meet with FEMA and SBA representatives in person at Meridian Technology Center. FEMA will only be available in person at Meridian Technology Center through June 18. Both SBA and FEMA will be closed Thursday, June 19, in observance of the Juneteenth holiday.

 

To register with FEMA

  • In person: Meridian Technology Center, Business Technology Building, Rooms 127 and 129, June 17-18, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
  • Phone: (800) 621-3362
  • Online: disasterassistance.gov

 

To register with SBA

  • In person: Meridian Technology Center, Business Technology Building, Rooms 127 and 129, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
  • Phone: (800) 659-2955
  • Online: sba.gov/disaster