Do Not File Duplicate Disaster Assistance Applications
Release Date: October 24, 2005
Release Number: 1603-111
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BATON ROUGE, La. -- Louisiana residents affected by one of the two hurricanes to hit the state this year are cautioned NOT to apply more than once for federal disaster assistance. Multiple applications will delay assistance.
Here is how Louisiana hurricane victims can avoid duplicate registrations:
- If you have applied online, do not duplicate your application by registering over the phone.
- If you have applied by phone, do not file again online.
- Have your registration number with you as a reference when you call the FEMA Helpline or when you visit a Disaster Recovery Center.
- Make sure only one person in your household applies for assistance and that there is only one application per address.
"It is important to register only once," said Col. Jeff Smith, state coordinating officer. "Multiple applications may delay our response."
State and federal officials are particularly concerned about duplicate registrations from Louisiana families who may have been separated during the storms and now have family members living in different locations. If your family is separated, it is critical that you make this clear when you register with FEMA.
Applicants can access FEMA's toll-free registration line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for those with speech- or hearing-impairment. Applications can be submitted online at www.fema.gov. Phone applicants can reduce wait time by calling between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. Lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week until further notice.
Last Modified: Monday, 24-Oct-2005 13:02:03