Good Answers To Common Questions About Recovery Assistance
Release Date: August 5, 2008
Release Number: 1773-048
» More Information on Missouri Severe Storms and Flooding
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- State and federal officials realize that following a disaster, and many weeks thereafter, residents may be misled by rumors about how to get disaster assistance and the types of aid programs that are available. When residents suffer losses they need accurate information.
Some common questions may include:
I have insurance. Is there other help available to me?
Yes. 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. This is where federal disaster programs may be able to help. You may find that some of your losses are not covered by insurance and disaster assistance can help.
Do I have to wait for my insurance adjuster before I apply for disaster assistance?
No. If you have insurance, find out what your policy covers. Take pictures if you can and begin clean-up and repairs, keeping estimates and receipts. But register as soon as you can in case you have unmet disaster-related needs. Initially, you may not be eligible for assistance until you are able to provide additional insurance settlement information to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This is a necessary step to avoid a duplication of benefits, but may be re-evaluated later. Therefore registering early is always beneficial.
Do I need to make an appointment at the Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to apply for assistance?
No. Appointments are not necessary at DRCs to get more information. Those who have damages and losses are urged to register for assistance first before they visit a DRC. To register, call FEMA's toll-free registration number at 1-800-621- FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. You can also register online at: www.fema.gov.
May I still visit the Disaster Recovery Center once I have registered with FEMA?
Yes. Experienced and helpful FEMA representatives are at DRCs to assist and provide additional information. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) representatives are available to help you apply for low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private non-profit organizations. Information about assistance from other federal, state and volunteer organizations is also available. You may visit any DRC that is open even if it is not located in your town or county.
I already repaired my home, can I still apply?
Yes. By registering, you still could qualify for reimbursement of eligible repairs or to help with unmet needs not covered by your insurance. It is helpful to take photos and save your receipts and records.
I got help from the American Red Cross and registered with them, can I still register with FEMA if I need assistance?
Yes. Registration with the Red Cross or other voluntary agencies is not the same as registering with FEMA. FEMA coordinates various federal programs to help disaster victims, which are different from the emergency food, clothing and shelter initially provided by the American Red Cross, Salvation Army and other voluntary agencies.
Are only low-income residents qualified for disaster assistance?
No. 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.
Do I have to be turned down by my bank before I can apply for a disaster loan?
No. SBA has its own criteria for determining each loan applicant's eligibility. They will decide whether or not you are able to repay a loan.
I don't really want a loan. Do I still need to fill out the SBA application when I receive it?
Yes. Filling out the SBA loan application is necessary to be considered for other forms of disaster assistance. You may qualify for disaster assistance designed to help meet serious, disaster-related needs. However, you must complete and return the SBA loan application.
I rent an apartment. Can I get help to replace my damaged personal property?
Yes. A renter may qualify for an SBA low-interest disaster loan or grants from other sources to replace personal property. One type of grant may cover temporary housing needs if a renter has to move to another dwelling. Other grants may cover eligible individuals or families with serious disaster-related needs and expenses not covered by insurance or other disaster-assistance programs.
State and federal officials encourage Missourians who have not already registered and were affected by the severe storms and flooding of June 1 July 18, to register for disaster assistance. The disaster-designated counties include: Andrew, Cass, Clark, Gentry, Greene, Holt, Johnson, Lewis, Lincoln, Linn, Livingston, Marion, Nodaway, Pike, Ralls, St. Charles, Stone, Taney, Vernon, and Webster. The deadline to register is August 27.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 05-Aug-2008 17:00:49