Options After Receiving A Denial Letter
Release Date: April 13, 2006
Release Number: 1631-035
» More Information on Missouri Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
COLUMBIA, Mo. -- There are options for applicants who have received a letter in the last 60 days stating they are not eligible for FEMA disaster aid, say officials from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Missouri disaster victims should follow-up on their cases to determine what assistance may be available if they have received a denial letter.
“One reason why some applicants are initially denied disaster assistance is because their paperwork was not signed or completed,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Thomas J. Costello. “It could also be that insurance cases had not been settled, and if insurance covered all their losses, applicants would not be eligible for disaster assistance. Depending on the amount they receive from their insurance companies, they could qualify for additional federal aid.”
By law, FEMA cannot duplicate financial assistance for losses covered by insurance. If an insurance settlement has been delayed longer than 30 days from filing for federal assistance, applicants can contact FEMA to provide documentation showing that an insurance claim was filed. Once the insurance claim has been settled, applicants with unmet disaster-related needs should contact FEMA to determine if additional assistance is available to them.
Applicants may appeal a denial by writing a letter explaining why they disagree with the decision. They should include their FEMA registration number and the specified disaster number found on their FEMA disaster application.
Mail the appeal letter to:
FEMA – Individuals & Households Program
National Processing Service Center
P.O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
Or fax to 1-800-827-8112
Appeals must be made within 60 days of the date on the letter of denial. All appeals are reviewed and decisions are usually rendered within 30 days. Applicants are notified by mail of the response to the appeal.
More information on the appeals process is available in the Applicant's Guide to the Individuals and Households Program Manual (mailed to applicants upon registration) or by calling 1 800 621 FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- or hearing-impaired.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Thursday, 13-Apr-2006 14:34:07