Misunderstandings May Cause Some To Miss Out On Disaster Aid
Release Date: September 2, 2005
Release Number: 1595-073
» More Information on Florida Hurricane Dennis
ORLANDO, Fla. – In the wake of a disaster, misleading rumors, misunderstandings and half-truths about available assistance may cause some hurricane-affected residents to automatically disqualify themselves from much-needed help.
Recovery officials are voicing concerns that unreliable word-of-mouth messages may cause individuals to assume they are not eligible for vital aid from the state of Florida and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Residents who suffered damages and losses as a result Hurricane Dennis can apply for assistance immediately by calling 1-800-621-3362 (FEMA). Those with a speech or hearing impairment can call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. Both telephone lines are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EDT. Those who have online access can register at www.fema.gov.
The last day to apply is Sept. 8.
Some of the most common misconceptions that have been heard in past disasters are:
- I have insurance, so there is no other help available. Not True: FEMA will not duplicate insurance benefits, but you may be eligible for help with losses not covered or for damages in excess of your coverage (“underinsured”). That is why it is important to register for assistance even while you are working with your insurance company to assess your insurance coverage.
- I have to wait for my insurance adjuster before I apply for disaster assistance. Not True: Do not wait for an adjuster before applying for aid or making repairs needed to make your house livable. However, you should find out what your policy covers, and be sure to keep papers and receipts for any work undertaken.
- I already repaired my home. I don’t need to apply. Not True: If expenses were not covered by insurance, you might qualify for reimbursement.
- I got help from the American Red Cross, so now I can’t get help from FEMA or the state. Not True: FEMA and the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) coordinate 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 and other voluntary agencies.
- I got help from the American Red Cross, so I'm already registered with FEMA. Not True: Registration with the American Red Cross is not the same as registration with FEMA. For federal and state disaster assistance, you must submit another application by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585.
- Only low-income residents qualify for disaster aid. Not True: The kinds of help provided depend on each applicant's circumstances. Federal and state disaster assistance programs may be available to those who suffered damage, regardless of income.
- I have to be turned down by my bank before I can apply for a disaster loan. Not True: If you lived in a declared county you are eligible to apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). More than 95 percent of the loans approved by the SBA are approved with interest rates as low as 3.187 percent for homeowners. If SBA cannot approve your loan application you may be referred to other agencies for additional assistance, but that can't happen if you don't return your application.
- I must own a business to apply for a loan from the SBA. Not True: The SBA low-interest loan is the primary source of federal assistance for long-term recovery for homeowners, renters and business owners. SBA covers uninsured or underinsured losses for real estate damages as well as personal property damages.
- I rent an apartment. I can't get help. Not True: There are several types of assistance available to renters. One type of grant may help renters with temporary housing needs if they have to move because of disaster damage or loss. Another type of grant may be available to an eligible individual or family with serious, disaster-related needs and necessary expenses that are not covered by insurance or other disaster assistance programs. Also a renter may qualify for an SBA low-interest disaster loan for personal property damages.
Last Modified: Friday, 02-Sep-2005 14:21:39