FEMA Corps 2026: Requirements to Apply to the Program

FEMA Corps opened the call for young people interested in working in emergencies and disasters in the United States. The program combines training, community service, and work experience. It also covers lodging, meals, and transportation related to assignments.

Participants can travel between 4 and 6 projects over approximately 10 months. Tasks include preparation, response, and recovery after disasters. The call for 2027 members remains open until October 19, 2026. Interested parties should review the requirements before submitting their application.

What is FEMA Corps?

FEMA Corps is a partnership between the Federal Emergency Management Agency and AmeriCorps NCCC. The program brings together teams of young people to support communities affected by hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and other disasters.

Participants receive training before starting the projects. Afterward, they may be sent to different states and territories. The Federal Emergency Management Agency explains that the program offers professional experience and service in affected communities.

The teams work full-time. Each group can have up to 8 members and one responsible leader. Dates may change due to operational needs. AmeriCorps announces the final schedule after selecting participants. The program requires wearing a uniform. It also prohibits having another paid job during service.

Who Can Apply to FEMA Corps?

Regular members must be U.S. citizens. The call requires being between 18 and 24 years old. Age is calculated according to AmeriCorps rules. People should review the official call before submitting documents. The citizenship requirement is mandatory. Having a work permit, temporary residency, or TPS does not substitute for that requirement.

Participants must be available to travel. Assignments can occur in Florida, Texas, New York, California, Puerto Rico and other destinations. The AmeriCorps call requests a statement of motivation and references. It may also ask for information about work experience, volunteering, or community service. Candidates must complete all platform steps. After submitting the application, some candidates receive a mandatory questionnaire. AmeriCorps indicates that responses may take between 1 to 3 weeks.