FEMA RPA deadline extended to March 25, individual assistance still pending
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The deadline for counties included in the recent Major Disaster Declaration to submit a Request for Public Assistance has been extended to March 25, 2026.
The original deadline was March 8.
This comes after January’s extreme winter storm that left 29 Tennesseans dead and several more with damages to their homes and businesses.
Public Assistance Eligibility
FEMA Public Assistance provides reimbursement to local governments, state agencies, public utilities, and some private nonprofits that provide emergency or essential government-like services.
Typically, the program reimburses these agencies for emergency work, like debris removal, or protective measures like evacuation support. It can also reimburse agencies for costs to repair or restore damaged public facilities and infrastructure.
15 counties included in the Major Disaster Declaration are eligible to apply for Public Assistance through the extended deadline.
- Cheatham
- Chester
- Clay
- Davidson
- Hardin
- Henderson
- Hickman
- Lewis
- Macon
- McNairy
- Perry
- Sumner
- Trousdale
- Wayne
- Williamson
According to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, all other counties are eligible for Public Assistance through the Emergency Declaration, but assistance is limited to emergency work, specifically emergency debris removal limited to right-of-way debris removal for the sole purpose of emergency vehicle access and emergency protective measures.
Individual Assistance Still Under Review
Individual Assistance remains under review after Gov. Bill Lee’s request for an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration was granted on Feb. 6.
There is no timeline for a decision, as Individual Assistance approval is ultimately made by the president.
Individual Assistance can help cover temporary housing costs if a home is uninhabitable. It can also fund repairs or replacement of owner-occupied primary residences. Additional assistance may be available for personal property, vehicles, medical and dental costs, childcare, funeral expenses, and other serious needs.
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency said it is continuing to validate damages. Individuals who have not self-reported damages through the damage assessment survey are encouraged to do so.
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