Ask FEMA #3 

Release Date: October 3, 2005
Release Number: 1603-058

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BATON ROUGE, La. -- This is the third in a series of columns answering commonly asked disaster recovery questions. Additional "Ask FEMA" columns will be released weekly as the response and recovery effort continues.

I called yesterday and completed a registration. When I called today, I was told my application is not in the system. Do I need to register again?

No. If you have already registered you do not need to register again. Please wait 48 hours for your registration to be available in the system. Also, you will receive additional information in the mail regarding your application, along with additional referral information for your area. Completing multiple registrations may actually delay processing and receipt of assistance.

I applied online through the www.fema.gov Web site. When I went to check my status, my information was not available. Do I need to register again?

No. Due to the large numbers of affected individuals, it may take up to 24 hours for your information to show in the system. If it has been more than 24 hours did have not received a Personal Identification Number (PIN #) in your email Inbox, call FEMA's Helpline to ensure we have your correct email address.

I called to update my application and was told by the FEMA Rep that my application was in the incomplete file. Why was my application not completed when I initially registered?

Incomplete applications occur when critical information, such as your social security number or contact number, is missing. Once all critical information is entered into our system, the application should be complete.  

Does it take longer for my FEMA application to process if I apply online?

No. All completed registrations will be processed as received. However, 24 hours after registration you should be able to access the online application without delay. At times it is difficult to get through to our 800 # when call volume is high.

I have damages from Hurricane Katrina and would like to register for assistance. When I called to register I was told that I needed to have a Social Security Number. Can I get assistance without having a Social Security number? 

A social security number is required to receive disaster assistance. A household may register for assistance using the social security number of any household member provided they were part of the household at the time of the disaster, including that of a minor.

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 and the U.S. Fire Administration. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003

Last Modified: Monday, 03-Oct-2005 10:35:08