Release Date: May 28, 2003
Release Number: 1462-14
» More Information on Kansas Severe Storms, Tornadoes and Flooding
Lenexa, KS -- Understanding the steps of the state/federal recovery process can help those affected by the recent storms make informed decisions to begin rebuilding their lives.
Q. How do I register with FEMA?
A. The only way to register with FEMA is to call the toll-free teleregistration
number at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), (TTY 1-800-462-7585), 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
CDT, seven days a week. This is the ONLY way to be eligible for state
and federal disaster assistance. Once you register with FEMA, you will
be given a control number that will identify you as having registered.
The process takes about 20 minutes. You must be registered with FEMA before
the application period closes on July 7, 2003.
Q. I am a renter. Should I still register with FEMA?
A. Yes, you should register with FEMA. If you have renters insurance,
contact your insurance company, then call FEMA. Renters who experienced
disaster-related losses may be eligible for a variety of state and federal
programs that can provide temporary housing and replace damaged personal
property.
Q. I registered with FEMA right after the tornado
and received a letter informing me I was not eligible because the county
I live in had not been officially declared a disaster area. Should I call
and register again?
A. If you already called and registered with FEMA, you do not have to
call again. You will receive a letter advising you of the status of your
claim. There is no need to re-register, however you may call 1-800-621-FEMA
(3362) and select the Helpline option to inquire about the status of your
claim or make changes to your personal information.
Q. If I have registered with the American Red Cross
or another agency, do I still need to call FEMA?
A. Yes. State and federal disaster assistance programs are separate from
all voluntary agency programs.
Q. What information will I have to give when I call
FEMA to register?
A. You will be asked general information about your income, your insurance
and how badly your residence or business was damaged. You should be prepared
to give details about your housing needs, the location of the damaged
property, and a phone number where you can be reached.
Q. I have insurance. Should I still register with
FEMA?
A. If you have private insurance, contact your insurance company first
then contact FEMA to register and get a control number. Disaster assistance
may be available to help uninsured or underinsured losses or expenses.
Q. Will I get help from FEMA before my insurance company
settles?
A. Since state and federal programs cannot duplicate benefits, you must
settle with your insurance company before we may be able to help you.
If your insurance settlement is delayed or if your policy does not cover
temporary housing needs, FEMA may be able to help with rental assistance.
Register with FEMA as soon as possible. The basic forms of temporary housing
are rental assistance and essential home repair.
Q. What if I have questions after I have registered
with FEMA?
A. After you have applied for assistance through FEMA, if you have questions
about the status of your application, you can call the Helpline for assistance.
That number is 1-800- 621-FEMA (3362) (TTY 1-800-462-7585). This useful
resource can help answer questions about the assistance process and available
programs. Call the Helpline to provide FEMA with additional information
or changes in contact information.
Last Modified: Thursday, 29-May-2003 10:51:40