Disaster Assistance Applicants Should Check Their Insurance
Release Date: July 24, 2003
Release Number: 1478-06
» More Information on Ohio Severe Storms and Flooding
Cridersville, OH -- Households and businesses who suffered damage from the Ohio floods that began July 4 should check with their insurance companies to find out what their policies cover.
While they may be eligible for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA), they need to determine what losses are not covered by their own insurance.
"If you were uninsured or your insurance policy did not cover some of your disaster related damages or losses, FEMA may be able to help," said Federal Coordinating Officer Ron Sherman. "If your insurance company did not fully cover your losses, take the first step and register with FEMA."
The law does not allow the government to provide disaster aid if losses have been fully compensated by an insurance claim.
Anyone who sustained damage from the Ohio flooding should register with FEMA by calling the toll-free registration number 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The number for the hard of hearing is 1-800-462-7585. The lines are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day until further notice.
Available disaster programs include temporary housing, low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration for homeowners, renters or business owners, grants for eligible applicants for disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other programs, and disaster unemployment assistance.
Last Modified: Thursday, 24-Jul-2003 12:15:51