Residents in Williamson County can begin to apply for federal funding now that the county has been added to the list of federal disaster declaration.

After severe storms, tornadoes, winds and flooding that occurred over Memorial Day Weekend, County Judge Dan Gattis declared a local state of disaster. The federal approval allows homeowners and renters to apply for aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA.

Disaster assistance for eligible homeowners and renters may include grants to help pay for rent, temporary housing and home repairs, other disaster-related needs, such as medical expenses. Low-interest disaster loans are also available from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which helps businesses of all sizes, nonprofits, homeowners and renters.

Residents and business owners should not wait for insurance claims to settle and apply right away with the business association, according to the news release. Those who had storm damage should register with FEMA even if they have insurance, for while the federal department cannot duplicate insurance payments, those deemed under-insured may still be able to receive assistance.

Eligible individuals affected by floods or tornadoes can apply for FEMA assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362 or 800-462-7585 between 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.