Answers to Commonly Asked Questions about Disaster Assistance 

Release Date: October 6, 2005
Release Number: 1606-021

» More Information on Texas Hurricane Rita

AUSTIN, Texas -- In the first few weeks following a disaster, residents may be misled by half-truths and rumors they hear about how to get help and the various assistance programs that are available. When you have suffered a loss, the last thing you need is misinformation.

The first thing that people who sustained damages or incurred losses from the hurricanes should do is apply for disaster assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (TTY 1-800-462-7585) or logging onto www.fema.gov.

Disaster assistance can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, minor home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other sources. Low-interest disaster loans from the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) also are available for homeowners, renters and business owners who sustained losses not covered by insurance.

Those with questions should check online at www.fema.gov, visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (TTY 1-800-462-7585). Other sources for disaster information include county emergency managers' offices and the Texas Governor's Division of Emergency Management Web site at www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem.

Here are answers to the most commonly asked questions received by the Helpline:

How will I receive any information mailed to me if I am unable to return to my home right away?
FEMA works closely with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) to see that mail gets delivered to its intended recipient. However, it is each individual's responsibility to make sure that FEMA and the USPS have current mailing information on record. It is also helpful to keep FEMA apprised of any changes to your contact information.

Do I have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to receive federal disaster assistance?
No, the two ways to apply for disaster assistance are online or by phone. Call 1-800-621-FEMA (TTY 1-800-462-7585) or log onto www.fema.gov. DRCs provide a one-stop shop for victims to talk with disaster recovery officials about services and programs. You may visit any DRC even if it is not located in your town or county. SBA officials are also available to assist with low-interest loan applications for homeowners and renters, as well as businesses of all sizes.

I don't really want a loan, do I have to fill out the SBA application I received?
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 will delay other forms of disaster assistance.

I was told I am eligible for financial assistance but I have not yet received payment. Can I still expect to receive it?
Applications are being processed as quickly as possible. If you have changed your address, make sure you have updated your information with FEMA by calling the Helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA or TTY 1-800-462-7585.

I know of others in my neighborhood, city or state who received help from FEMA, however I was told I have insufficient damages. Does FEMA use the same criteria when considering damages for everyone?
FEMA reviews each applicant's case individually and applies the same eligibility criteria. If you were determined to be ineligible because of insufficient damages and you feel this finding is incorrect you have a right to file an appeal.

I was contacted by an inspector and told that I needed to meet him/her at my damaged home. I am temporarily residing out of state. Am I required to travel back to my damaged home? If so, what types of assistance are available to assist me in my travel expenses to and from my damaged dwelling?
It is not required that you be present for the inspection. You can make arrangements with the inspector for someone else to accompany the inspector in your absence - either a designated relative or friend over 18 years of age, or a FEMA Community Relations representative. Please be sure your contact information stays current. If you are within a reasonable distance, you should meet the inspector at your damaged home, since you will know best the losses incurred.

The inspector told me I was going to get money from FEMA. However, I got a letter from FEMA stating that I was not eligible. Which is correct?
The letter is correct. The inspectors do not determine eligibility and are instructed not to comment on eligibility.

I got a check from FEMA. What can I use the money for?
FEMA sends you money to meet your housing and personal property needs related to the disaster. You will receive a letter from FEMA telling you what the money covers. Be sure to read the "Applicant's Guide," the booklet included with your letter, for additional information.

Will FEMA help me pay my utility bills?
No. FEMA cannot pay utility bills. However, local charitable organizations may be able to help for a short period. We suggest you contact the Red Cross or your local United Way office for a referral to a local agency that may be able to help.

I lost my food because of the power outage; will I be reimbursed for it?
FEMA's disaster assistance program does not cover food losses. Voluntary organizations in the disaster area may be able to help you with a hot meal or other immediate needs for food.

I purchased a generator. Will I be reimbursed?
FEMA reviews requests for reimbursement of the cost of a generator on a case-by-case basis and determines if a generator was purchased to overcome a disaster-related hardship, injury or adverse condition. You should register and submit copies of your receipts to see if the cost is covered.

FEMA told me to send in copies of my receipts. What is the mailing address?
Please mail all correspondences to the following address:
Mail: FEMA - Individual and Households Program
National Processing Service Center
P.O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
Or
Fax it to: 1-800-827-8112

Please write your name, social security number, disaster number and registration number on all pages of your document and keep a copy for your own records.

FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.

Last Modified: Thursday, 06-Oct-2005 15:38:28