Common Misunderstandings May Cause Some Victims To Miss Disaster Assistance
Release Date: September 27, 2004
Release Number: 1548-008
» More Information on Louisiana Hurricane Ivan
BATON ROUGE, La. -- In the first few weeks following a disaster, people who suffered loss or damage need all the help they can get. Unfortunately, they may be misled by half-truths and rumors about how to get that help and the various assistance programs that are available. Individuals and households who suffered damages and losses because of Hurricane Ivan can find out what kind of assistance is available by calling the FEMA toll-free resistration number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those with speech or hearing impairment can call TTY 1-800-462-7585. Both lines are open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, until further notice.
Government disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate you for your entire loss. If you have insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered under your insurance policy. Residents should contact their insurance agent first, then if they have unmet needs they should call FEMA to apply. If insured residents do not first file insurance claims, they may not be eligible for certain types of assistance. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other forms of help may come in the form of loans.
The FEMA representative will explain the details to you when you call.
Some clarifications for common misconceptions about disaster assistance:
I have insurance. I hear there still may be other help available to me.
True. Insurance is your main source for money to put your life back in order after a disaster. But there are many things that insurance does not cover. That is where federal disaster programs may be able to help.
I have to wait for my insurance adjuster before I apply for disaster assistance.
Not True. You do not have to wait for an agent or adjuster's inspection before applying for assistance. However, if you have insurance, you should find out what your policy covers, and be sure to keep papers and receipts for any work. If you still have unmet disaster-related needs, you should call FEMA to apply. To avoid a duplication of benefits, you may need to provide additional insurance information.
I already repaired my home. It is too late to register with FEMA.
Not True. You could qualify for reimbursement of expenses not covered by your insurance. You have until November 15, 2004 to apply.
I registered with FEMA almost a year ago. I can still submit my insurance information.
True. You have up to twelve months from the date your registered to submit insurance documentation.
There is nothing I can do if FEMA determines I am ineligible for assistance.
Not True. Both insured and uninsured applicants who are not satisfied with FEMA’s decision about that assistance may file an appeal, explaining in writing why they feel the decision is wrong. Appeals must be filed with any new or additional information within 60 days following notification from FEMA.
I got help from the American Red Cross, but I still need to apply to FEMA if I need assistance.
True. FEMA coordinates a number of programs to help disaster victims. These programs are different from the emergency food, clothing and shelter initially provided by the American Red Cross, Salvation Army and other voluntary agencies. Registration with the Red Cross or other voluntary agencies is not the same as applying with FEMA.
I have to be poor to qualify for disaster assistance.
Not True. Federal and state disaster assistance programs may be available to those who suffered damage, regardless of income. The programs are not "welfare." The kinds of help provided depend on the applicant's circumstances and unmet disaster-related needs.
I have to be turned down by my bank before I can apply for a disaster loan.
Not True. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which handles low-interest disaster loans, has its own criteria for determining each loan applicant's eligibility. The SBA will decide whether or not you are able to repay a loan. If you are not qualified for a loan, you may be eligible for other assistance, but it is necessary to go through the SBA application process first.
I can apply for a loan from the SBA even if I'm not a business owner.
True. Renters and homeowners may be eligible for low-interest loans for home or personal property losses, based on the type and extent of "uninsured" or "underinsured" disaster-related losses. Don't let the name fool you. In a presidential declaration, SBA is the primary source of financial assistance.
I don't really want a loan, but I've heard I need to fill out the SBA application when I receive it.
True. If you do not qualify for a loan, you may be considered for other forms of assistance, like the Other Needs Assistance program that is designed to help meet serious, disaster-related needs. However, you must complete and return the SBA loan application. If the loan application is not returned it could prevent you from qualifying for other forms of disaster assistance.
I rent an apartment. I can't get help to replace my damaged property.
Not True. A renter may also qualify for an SBA low-interest disaster loan or a cash grant to replace personal property. One type of grant may cover temporary housing needs if a renter has to move to another dwelling. Another type of grant may be available to an eligible individual or families with serious disaster-related needs and expenses that are not covered by insurance or other disaster assistance programs.
I'm self-employed and out of work; I may qualify for disaster unemployment benefits.
True. Disaster Unemployment Assistance, funded by FEMA and administered by the Louisiana Department of Labor, provides benefits for workers who would not normally qualify for unemployment compensation, including farmers, farm workers and those who are self-employed. Anyone interested in filing for disaster unemployment assistance should visit the nearest employment services office.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 28-Sep-2004 13:11:45