A Denial Letter May Not Be the Last Word
Release Date: May 16, 2007
Release Number: 1697-017
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EAGLE PASS, Texas -- Don't despair if you received a letter from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) stating that you have been denied for disaster assistance. It may be that FEMA cannot complete the assistance evaluation process until you supply additional personal information or insurance information.
An applicant may be denied assistance for various reasons, including insufficient storm-related damage or adequate insurance coverage. It's important that even if you have registered with FEMA, you call and keep them informed of any changes in your status. Also call to update personal information or additional insurance information.
"Federal disaster assistance is designed to help with uninsured or under-insured losses caused by a disaster," explains Tony Russell, federal coordinating officer for the Texas disaster. "The disaster funds give many a starting place or 'hand up' to begin the recovery process."
Those who have been denied FEMA assistance may be eligible for other programs such as a U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loan, free crisis counseling, legal assistance, or help from volunteer agencies.
An applicant also has the right to appeal a denial in writing within 60 days from the date of the decision of the letter. Guidelines for appeals can be found in the Applicant's Handbook. Applicants can also get guidance on this issue at any Disaster Recovery Center or by calling FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585.
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: Thursday, 17-May-2007 12:36:01