WILMINGTON, N.C. -- After 90 days of being open, the deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Thursday at 11:59 p.m.

  • Typically the recovery window following a disaster like Hurricane Florence is 60 days.
  • FEMA said they are approaching the $1 billion mark of federal money requested for North Carolina's recovery.
  • Officials encourages applicants to contact a FEMA representative at least every two weeks to keep your application up to date.

Typically the recovery window following a disaster like Hurricane Florence is 60 days, but it was extended because of the volume of people needing help.

FEMA Public Information Officer Rebecca Kelly said they are approaching the $1 billion mark of federal money requested for North Carolina's recovery.

"Recovery is going to be very challenging over the next few months," said Kelly. "And, we don't want to miss anybody having an opportunity to register for assistance, make updates to their application once the deadline has closed, and make us aware of any changing needs within your household."

FEMA and the Small Business Administration are located in Independence Mall, the last disaster recovery center in the area.

SBA Public Affairs Specialist Ly Eldridge said SBA is able to offer businesses, homeowners, renters and nonprofits low-interest loans with deferred payments up to a year.

"Whether you're not sure that you want a loan, or even need a loan, or that you can even qualify for a loan, it's important that applicants go ahead and fill out the application because many times that can stop their FEMA process," said Eldridge.

Although the time to register will be over Thursday, Kelly encourages applicants to contact a FEMA representative at least every two weeks to keep your application up to date.