Floridians Can Now Register For Disaster Assistance Online
Release Date: October 27, 2004
Release Number: 1539-236
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ORLANDO, Fla. -- Florida residents can now register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) online, in addition to the traditional means of telephone registration by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- and hearing-impaired.
More than 12,000 people have applied online to date. The system provides an easy alternative when the phone lines for registering are full at certain times of the day.
“Providing the option of online registration is just one more way FEMA is reaching out to Florida citizens as they recover from losses caused by the storms,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Bill Carwile. “Those with computer access will find this means of registration fast and easy.”
The process is simple:
- First, access the worldwide web on your computer and enter the FEMA website address in the address window: http://www.fema.gov
- The words “Register for Disaster Assistance Online” appear high on the right-hand side of the page in a green box. Click that box, then click “OK” in the question box that pops up.
- You are then taken to “FEMA Online Registration Requirements,” a page that gives the phone number of a system help desk, information about how to register by telephone, browser requirements, and a highlighted link to “Frequently Asked Questions for FEMA Internet Registration.” It is helpful to read these FAQs before proceeding. Click the link “Go to FEMA Online Registration” when you are ready.
- You are taken to the “Individual Assistance Center” page, which gives general information about registering online and tells what information you will need during the process. When ready to proceed, click the highlighted link “Apply now online.”
- Provide the information requested on each page displayed, clicking each “Next” button when ready, and when the final page has been completed, click the “Submit” button.
“FEMA and the State of Florida work closely to help simplify the process of getting needed help,” said State Coordinating Officer Craig Fugate of the State Emergency Response Team (SERT). “Online registration can help ensure that everyone who qualifies for assistance is able to request that aid without difficulty.”
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: Wednesday, 27-Oct-2004 17:20:37