Questions, Confusion, Concerns? Call The FEMA Helpline
Release Date: July 28, 2008
Release Number: 1766-052
» More Information on Indiana Severe Storms and Flooding
INDIANAPOLIS -- After undergoing the devastation of storms, tornadoes and flooding from May 30 to June 27, residents of Indiana may not know where to turn for answers. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers the FEMA Helpline for just this reason. Helping victims throughout the entire recovery process is a FEMA priority.
FEMA urges disaster victims to register for assistance if they have not already done so. (Deadline to register is August 11.) After registering, residents can continue to get important information by calling the same phone number. To contact the FEMA Helpline, call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or log on to www.fema.gov . The TTY number is 1-800-462-7585 for people who are speech- or hearing-impaired.
The FEMA Helpline can be a useful recovery tool:
Have questions about insurance?
- If your insurance settlement has been delayed longer than 30 days call the Helpline to find out about assistance from FEMA until your insurance settlement arrives.
- If your insurance settlement is insufficient to meet your disaster-related needs contact the Helpline and see how FEMA can help you with unmet needs.
- If you have received the maximum settlement from your insurance for Additional Living Expenses and still need help with your disaster-related temporary housing need - contact the Helpline.
Need help with temporary housing?
- If you've exhausted your FEMA rental assistance and still need temporary housing, call the Helpline for possible recertification for additional assistance.
- If you're out of your home because of the disaster or your State or Red Cross hotel voucher is running out, call the Helpline to discuss your options.
Don't agree with a FEMA decision in your case?
- The Helpline can be a first stop in appealing a FEMA decision.
Has your contact information changed?
- Applicants should also use the Helpline to update their contact information after registering. If you move or change your phone number, call the Helpline. FEMA can't send you assistance if FEMA can't find you.
"If you have questions or concerns regarding disaster assistance, call the Helpline," said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Mike Smith. "We'll see if FEMA has a program to help or we'll try to get you pointed toward someone who does."
FEMA encourages all registered disaster victims to call the FEMA Helpline to get correct information. By keeping in contact with FEMA through the Helpline, disaster victims can help to ensure the process for aid flows smoothly.
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: Tuesday, 29-Jul-2008 12:44:21