Disaster Recovery Officials Offer Answers 

Release Date: April 17, 2003
Release Number: 1455-42

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Charleston, WV - Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and West Virginia Office of Emergency Services (WVOES) officials use a question-and-answer format to offer information about the Feb. 16 disaster recovery process.

Q. What should I do to get help on my disaster losses?

A. Call the toll-free registration number, 800-621-FEMA (3362) or, if you have a speech or hearing impairment, call the TTY number, 800-462-7585.

Q. If I have insurance, can I still get assistance?

A. If you have any insurance coverage, contact your insurance company. However, if you believe you have needs not met by your insurance, do not delay in applying for disaster assistance. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits.

Q. What information do I need to give when I call for assistance?

A. Your name, address of damaged property, insurance information, phone number where you may be reached and description of your losses.

Q. What happens after I apply?

A. It depends on which sources of aid you are referred to. In some cases, you will have to contact the source directly. If you are applying for temporary disaster housing assistance, a trained FEMA inspector will call for an appointment within two weeks after you have registered. If you have not heard by then, call FEMA at 800-621-FEMA (3362).

Q. I registered with FEMA and then I received a disaster loan application from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Why did I receive a loan application?

A. FEMA and SBA work very closely. Completion of the SBA loan application is a necessary step to possibly receiving further grant assistance. SBA is the primary source of federal funds for long-term recovery assistance for disaster victims. For disaster damage to private property owned by individuals, families and businesses that are not fully covered by insurance, the basic form of federal assistance for long-term recovery is a low-interest disaster loan from SBA.

Q. What happens if I cannot afford a loan?

A. Even if you believe you cannot afford a loan, you should submit your low-interest loan application to SBA. If SBA determines you are unable to repay a loan, it may refer you to another program. To be eligible for other zassistance, it is necessary to return your SBA loan application packet.

Q. When an inspector comes to my home how can I know that he is from FEMA?

A. All FEMA inspectors wear a current photo identification badge and they never ask for money.

Q. When rebuilding my home, do I have to have a permit?

A. Homeowners, landlords and business owners are urged to check with local and county government regarding permits before repairing or rebuilding a structure damaged by winds or flooding. There can be strict local requirements on how and where structures may be renovated.

Q. Is it necessary to save receipts?

A. Save the receipts of every purchase you made to make your house safe, sanitary and secure; this may include such items as chain saw or cleaning equipment rental. When state and federal inspectors check the damage, receipts will help them properly determine your losses.

Last Modified: Friday, 18-Apr-2003 12:50:49