MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley on Friday, Sept. 19 updated residents about how to apply for federal assistance following historic August floods, saying accurate information is critical for recovery to happen.

Governor Tony Evers’ request for a major disaster declaration was approved on Thursday, Sept. 11, opening the door for individuals and households to seek help through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Crowley stressed that FEMA Individual Assistance is not distributed on a first come, first served basis. Any eligible resident with uninsured damage will receive funding.

Applications are open at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling (800) 621-3362 through Wednesday, Nov. 12.

Crowley also mentioned that confusion has circulated about a reported $29.8 million in approved federal funding. Officials clarified that figure came from FEMA’s Preliminary Damage Assessment, which was a sample of losses. The total available is not necessarily capped at that amount.

Residents are advised to apply immediately, with Crowley saying, "The most important step today is applying for FEMA assistance, either online or by phone."

Also mentioned is that low-interest federal disaster loans are available through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Applications are open until Monday, Nov. 10. An SBA Business Recovery Center is operating at Summit Place in West Allis to assist applicants. That address is 6737 W. Washington Street.

State officials are awaiting federal approval for Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation funds. Keep up with the progress by clicking here.