Disaster Aid Briefs For New Yorkers
Release Date: May 11, 2007
Release Number: 1692-022
» More Information on New York Severe Storms and Inland and Coastal Flooding
ALBANY, N.Y. -- The following information may be important for those registering for disaster assistance, according to officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the New York State Emergency Management Office (SEMO).
- Disaster grants from FEMA, other federal agencies and the State of New York do not count as income. This means they do not affect one's taxes, Social Security benefits, or eligibility for Medicaid, welfare, food stamps, or Aid to Families with Dependent Children.
- Donations received from charitable organizations do not affect one's taxes, Social Security or other benefits either.
- Those whose septic tank or well was damaged by the event may be eligible for either a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Association or, if not eligible for a loan, for a grant from FEMA and the State of New York. The funds can cover pumping, repairs or replacement of septic tanks, and repairs or decontamination of private wells that are the sole source of water for a home. Public health officials urge residents who rely on private wells to have their water system inspected and tested if their well was flooded or was close to a flooded area, or if there has been a recent change in the water's odor or taste.
- Disaster unemployment benefits are available to those who lost work or income because of the effects of the storm in the seven counties eligible for Individual Assistance. The benefit includes those who live outside the area but work or had their income affected by the storms and flooding in those counties. The program includes those normally not eligible for unemployment assistance, such as farmers and the self-employed. Unemployment income is taxable. Individuals can apply by calling the New York State Department of Labor on Monday or Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 1-888-209-8124.
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has extended most tax deadlines for those affected by the storm to June 25. The extension may include those outside the affected area who cannot file because their tax records or tax preparer was affected. See the IRS Website, www.irs.gov, for more details.
- Taxpayers affected by the storm may claim refunds for losses that are not covered by insurance or other payments. They can file to get a refund now based on last year's taxes, or can wait and claim the loss for their current year's income. The IRS, at no charge, also will also expedite requests for copies of old tax returns for affected taxpayers. The toll-free number for general tax questions is 1-800-829-1040.
Those affected by the nor'easter and flooding may register for assistance by calling
1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or TTY 1-800-462-7585, or online at www.fema.gov. When registering online, be sure to use the same name as on your Social Security card.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
Last Modified: Monday, 14-May-2007 10:05:30