Two years after Hurricane Helene struck Western North Carolina, Pisgah Legal Services continues to provide free help to survivors still facing legal issues related to the storm. Two emerging issues Pisgah Legal is are FEMA recoupments (requests to repay disaster assistance) and housing instability caused by foreclosures, evictions, and substandard conditions from the impacts of Helene.
Managing Attorney Julia Horrocks notes, “Two years on from Helene, survivors continue to face complex legal challenges. Disaster recovery is a long and arduous process. Pisgah Legal Services will continue to support our clients and our communities as new legal needs emerge.”
If a disaster survivor receives a letter saying they owe FEMA, they should confirm it is actually from FEMA and not a scammer by checking their FEMA online account or contacting the FEMA Recoupment Hotline at 1.800-816.1122.
More information and guidance for writing a recoupment appeal letter can be found on at pisgahlegal.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/FEMA-Recoupment-Flyer_9.26.pdf.
Pisgah Legal continues to assist disaster survivors with disaster-related legal issues, including:
- Renew NC contract reviews and legal consultations for homeowners who applied for a home rebuild or repair by Renew NC
- FEMA recoupment: When FEMA takes action to recover disaster relief money previously awarded to an individual
- Consultations on hazard mitigation approvals
- Foreclosure and eviction prevention and housing rights
- Debt, fraud, and scams
- Homeowner insurance denials and lowball settlement offers
- Securing tax deductions for taxpayers who suffered disaster losses not covered by other resources
- Disability benefits application assistance for unhoused individuals impacted by Helene
To apply for assistance, individuals can call 1.800.489-6144 or apply online at pisgahlegal.org.