WASHINGTON – First District Congressman Paul Ryan today reminded residents of Kenosha, Racine, Walworth and Waukesha Counties who wish to apply for disaster assistance due to storm-related damage that occurred between late May and early July to register by calling FEMA's toll-free number for individual assistance, 1-800-462-9029. (People with a speech or hearing impediment can call TDD: 1-800-462-7585.)

"It's important that homeowners, renters, and businesses who suffered storm damage know how to apply for state and federal assistance," said Ryan. "The first critical step is calling to register on FEMA's toll-free line. It's a simple step, but it's easy to put off. FEMA representatives visited my Janesville office recently, and they shared their concern that some people who experienced storm and flood damage haven't yet taken advantage of the toll-free number to register."

According to FEMA, people can register for individual assistance for up to 60 days after the date of their county's disaster declaration. FEMA is urging individuals, businesses, homeowners and renters in Kenosha, Racine, Walworth, and Waukesha Counties who suffered storm damage between May 26 and July 19 to call the toll-free number listed above by September 9. Callers will need to provide the address of the damaged property as well as their current address and phone number. Insurance information is helpful but not required at this time.

As of July 27, 248 individuals and businesses in Kenosha County, 163 in Racine County, and 33 in Walworth County had applied for assistance through FEMA's toll-free registration phone line. On Wednesday, July 26, government officials said Waukesha County had been added to the list of counties whose residents are eligible for individual assistance.