Frequent Questions Asked By Seniors 

Release Date: November 1, 2004
Release Number: 1539-009

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I can't get through to FEMA. How can I apply for disaster help?
More than a million Floridians have applied for help on the FEMA/state disaster hotline. So you can understand why the line might be busy sometimes. It is best to place your call to 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) either early in the morning or late at night. Persons with hearing or speech impairment can call TTY: 1-800-462-7585. The lines are currently open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week. In addition to having pen and paper available to record important phone contacts when you register, you will also need:

You can also apply for assistance online at www.fema.gov. If you or any family member do not have access to the internet, many communities have computer resources at their public libraries.

That looks complicated. Can I get someone to help do this?
Yes. If you need help completing your application, and you have no one to assist you, call FEMA's Helpline, the same number as the application line. You will be directed to a person who can tell you where the nearest Disaster Recovery Center is located. Someone there will be able to help you. Be sure to have the necessary information with you. You may also apply for assistance at FEMA's web site, www.fema.gov.

If I accept a grant, will this impact my Social Security or Medicare programs?
Acceptance of disaster assistance grants should not affect those programs.

Does disaster help have to be repaid?
State and federal grants do not have to be repaid. Loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration must be repaid.

Is disaster financial assistance reportable as income?
No. But you may be able to claim casualty losses and receive an early benefit from such a deduction. If you think you may qualify, either call the Internal Revenue Service at 1-800-829-1040, or for the hearing or speech impaired 1-800-829-4059 or go online at www.irs.gov. You may also wish to discuss this with one of the attorneys volunteering to give free assistance to storm victims. Disaster Legal Services can be reached at 1-866-550-2929.

I am having trouble understanding all I need to do to get essentials such as food and water. Can someone help me do what is necessary?
Absolutely. Your local Red Cross chapter and volunteer agencies were among the first to respond to such basic human needs during this disaster and can still respond to your needs. Your connection to them will bring a quick response and some suggestions that may help you take additional action to speed your recovery. Remember, though, that an application to the Red Cross will not connect you with FEMA for help. You need to call the FEMA registration hotline in order to be considered for a wide variety of assistance.

I heard that I had to apply for a loan or I wouldn't get any help. Is that true?
When you have damage to your home and apply for help with FEMA, a FEMA inspector will verify the damage. Based on his verification, you may then receive funds to repair your house to make it safe, sanitary and functional or funds for renting other lodging. You then may receive in the mail an application for a loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Be sure to fill it out and return it in order to remain under consideration for further assistance.

How does the SBA loan work?
If upon review of your FEMA application the SBA determines you are financially qualified and able to repay a long-term, low interest loan, you will be offered a loan. If it is decided you are unable to qualify for a loan, you will be considered for another FEMA grant assistance program. Loans must be repaid; grants do not. You cannot apply directly for a grant. If you are offered a loan, you are not required to accept it. If you reject it, however, you won't be referred to the additional grant program.

Since we lived on a limited fixed income, can we afford to borrow money?
The disaster loan program managed by the U.S. Small Business Administration is tailored to help people at all levels of income. Interest rates can be as low as 3.187 percent for homeowners. If you obtained a $10,000 loan for 30 years at that interest rate, your monthly payment would amount to about $44.00. Actual loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant's financial condition.

I am 70 years old, and my house has no mortgage. Why would I want a 30-year loan?
It all depends upon an individual's financial resources and personal preferences. If the property has a potential value for you and your heirs, you'll probably want to repair your valuable investment. If you do not have the cash to repair your home to pre-disaster condition, a low-interest, long-term loan from the federal government may be your best solution. The SBA does not discriminate on the basis of age or income.

Can I have a ramp built for a FEMA-provided travel trailer/mobile home?
Requirements for ramps for travel trailers or mobile homes are part of the initial assessment. If you did not receive a ramp but require one, call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). A Helpline representative will ensure that someone will get back in contact with you.

I have trees down all over my yard and can't handle strenuous work. Is there any help for debris removal?
Many homeowners' insurance policies cover debris removal. FEMA and the state of Florida may provide funds for cleaning up debris on private property or in gated communities if the debris prevents access or is damaging the home. Your local officials can also tell you of a pickup schedule for debris placed on public property in your area. The U.S. Small Business Administration may also provide a low interest loan to assist with debris removal. Some disaster volunteer groups also help prepare and remove debris for homeowners who are physically unable to do it. Contact your county Emergency Manager or go online for their current debris removal information.

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 Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Friday, 05-Nov-2004 17:03:44