Registration Key To Getting Aid
Release Date: October 25, 2004
Release Number: 1539-230
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ORLANDO, Fla. -- Homeowners and renters still waiting for visits or settlement letters from their insurance carriers will not miss aid deadlines if they have registered with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Some hurricane victims have expressed concern that a delay in getting insurance settlements will prevent them from getting aid. But if they have registered with FEMA, they do not need to worry.
"FEMA and the State of Florida are committed to helping victims recover from these disasters," said Bill Carwile, FEMA's federal coordinating officer. "We do not want residents to think they have missed out on vital aid because of misinformation. Once you register for each disaster, your application is in the system."
Insurance adjusters have been overwhelmed with the number of claims submitted by Floridians because of the four hurricanes that hit the state in less than seven weeks starting in August.
"Residents should not wait until they get an insurance settlement letter to register with FEMA," said Craig Fugate, state coordinating officer for the State Emergency Response Team (SERT). "While Governor Bush asked to extend deadlines for Hurricanes Charley and Frances to Dec. 11, 2004, it is imperative to register so a FEMA inspector can assess your damages, too."
Floridians with property damage and who have insurance are still encouraged to apply for aid by calling FEMA's toll-free registration number at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the hearing and speech impaired. Registrations also can be made online at www.fema.gov
FEMA and the State of Florida will not duplicate funds supplied by insurance or cover deductibles; however, aid may be available for unmet needs and expenses.
Applicants who already have registered with FEMA can submit insurance settlement information after they receive it. Applicants whose settlement is delayed by more than 30 days can visit any Disaster Recovery Center and sign a paper that states they will repay FEMA for assistance they receive if it is duplicated by insurance payments.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Oct-2004 08:49:14