SoonerSafe offers a rebate of up to $3,000 per home, capped at 75% of the safe room’s actual cost. Oklahoma Emergency Management (OEM) selects recipients through a random drawing.
As of October 2026, OEM says the 2026 rebate program is not open.
The old registration portal has been retired. If you submitted a registration for an earlier round, watch your email for updates from OEM.
How much it pays
The rebate is capped two ways: $3,000 per home, and 75% of the actual cost. On a $4,000 shelter, 75% is $3,000, so the rebate cap would be $3,000. On a $3,200 shelter, 75% is $2,400, so that is the most you could get.
The rebate is not taxable income. OEM’s FAQ says it is exempt as a federally funded assistance program.
How people are picked
OEM intends to offer the program each year, depending on federal funding. Use the rules for the round you apply to when planning your project.
The 2025 rules gave priority to residents affected by 2024 disaster declarations in 26 counties, including McClain and Pottawatomie. A drawing for other counties was planned only if money was left over.
What the ownership and location rules say
OEM’s rules require the safe room to be at your primary residence, on property you own. Its FAQ allows a detached safe room within 100 feet of the home.
For a property in a floodplain, OEM says a below-ground safe room is ineligible, while an above-ground one may qualify. Ask the installer to check the proposed location before you choose a unit.
What happens after you are picked
- Confirm within 30 days. If OEM does not hear back, your name comes off the list.
- Choose a contractor and plan installation for after the selection notice.
- The installer signs the SoonerSafe Certificate of Installation, which goes to OEM by the deadline for your round.
- Send in the paid invoice showing the total cost of the safe room and its installation.
- Allow time for payment. OEM lists a typical wait of 6–8 weeks, with a maximum of 12 weeks.
The installer’s certificate
Ask about the Certificate of Installation before hiring a company. Make sure your installer agrees to sign it and give you a copy for your records. OEM also notes that many local codes require a permit and an inspection, which the Oklahoma storm shelter permit guide covers city by city.
Keep the tax paperwork in mind, too. The separate storm shelter property tax exemption guide explains what to file with your county assessor.
Get your price ready before the next round
An itemized quote gives you a price to compare with the published rebate cap. Request one through the free quote form, and ask the installer to:
- say whether it will sign the SoonerSafe Certificate of Installation
- confirm in writing that the unit meets FEMA P-361 and ICC 500
- itemize the unit, installation and permit fee, since OEM wants a paid invoice with the total cost
- tell you how soon it could install once a selection notice arrives
Frequently asked questions
Can I get the rebate for a shelter I already put in?
No. A safe room installed before you get the selection notice is not eligible.
Do I pay income tax on the rebate?
No. OEM's FAQ says the rebate is exempt from tax because it is a federally funded assistance program.
Can I install the shelter myself and still get the rebate?
No. SoonerSafe does not allow owners to build or install the safe room themselves. A contractor installs it and signs the Certificate of Installation.