TEXAS — President Donald Trump declared the flooding event a major disaster. FEMA opened applications for disaster assistance following the presidential disaster declaration.

Texas Department of Insurance spokesperson Mistie Hinote urged residents to document losses and damages and file claims immediately. Mistie Hinote is a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Insurance.

Residents in 29 counties, including Kerr, Kendall, Bexar, Uvalde, and La Salle counties, may qualify for federal aid through FEMA. People can apply for FEMA disaster assistance online, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA app.

"Residents should take photos, make necessary minor repairs such as tarping a roof, and keep receipts for possible reimbursement," Hinote said. "Homeowners should determine whether to file with their homeowners insurer or the National Flood Insurance Program by reviewing their paperwork," Hinote said.

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood coverage is often a separate policy. The National Flood Insurance Program is run by FEMA. National Flood Insurance Program policies may not cover all costs.

FEMA cautioned that uninsured applicants who register for disaster relief may be required to purchase flood insurance to qualify for future aid. U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz asked President Trump to expand the disaster declaration. Expanding the disaster declaration would allow organizations such as the Small Business Administration to administer low-interest loans. 5 warnings and 20 advisories are in effect for 21 regions.

The federal disaster declaration activates pathways for financial support in the affected areas. Residents must navigate distinct insurance structures, as standard homeowners policies typically exclude flood damage. The National Flood Insurance Program, administered by FEMA, offers a separate mechanism for claims, though it may not cover all expenses.

State officials emphasized immediate documentation to facilitate reimbursement. Uninsured individuals seeking federal relief face additional requirements, including potential mandates to purchase flood insurance for future eligibility. Political leaders have sought to broaden the scope of aid, which could introduce low-interest loan options through the Small Business Administration.