Fraud is in the Air 

FEMA issues warning about air purifier reimbursement claims

Release Date: April 1, 2006
Release Number: 1603-423

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BATON ROUGE, La. -- Misinformation is common following disasters. The worst kind of misinformation may be the kind that separates you from your money.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the state of Louisiana warn disaster victims and non-victims alike to be wary of fraud and misinformation. Disaster victims should be sure they are dealing with FEMA officials before providing any personal information.

And everyone should be on guard against fraudulent claims made by third parties through word of mouth or in print. Clever minds can find many opportunities for fraud. Some of the troublesome claims incorrectly promise that FEMA will reimburse individuals for equipment purchases such as air purifiers. This is rarely true. FEMA programs have very specific eligibility criteria, and FEMA cannot reimburse individuals for purchases not eligible for federal or state assistance.

Among the items not eligible for FEMA reimbursement include: food, gasoline, toiletries, household cleaners and mold removal. Individuals should always speak with FEMA for detailed information regarding eligible expenses before they make any purchases or sign any contracts. The purchase of air purification equipment may be eligible only if certified, in writing, by a licensed physician. Disaster victims should not believe that items purchased are covered under FEMA programs simply on the say-so of a third party.

Disaster victims should also be aware of individuals claiming to represent FEMA and attempting to collect personal financial information or money. When you deal face-to-face with individuals, be sure to ask for identification. If you have registered with FEMA for assistance you will have been given a case number. Anyone who represents FEMA should be able to tell you your case number. If they can’t, walk away or hang up the phone.

If you have questions or concerns regarding your registration or eligibility for disaster assistance, more information is available on the FEMA Website, www.fema.gov, or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585. To report fraud, call the Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721.

FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program.

Last Modified: Monday, 03-Apr-2006 09:36:07