Appealing an Ineligibility Letter May Turn "No" to "Yes"
Release Date: November 11, 2008
Release Number: 1791-245
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AUSTIN, Texas -- Applicants who have received notice from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) that they are ineligible for disaster assistance may be able to use additional documentation to turn that "no" to a "yes."
"Every applicant has the right to appeal any decision," said Federal Coordinating Officer Sandy Coachman, who is overseeing the federal efforts to help Texans recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Ike. "When you appeal FEMA's decision, you are asking us to review your case again, and we will do that. FEMA is here to help. We want to help."
FEMA reviews all appeals and usually makes a decision within 30 days of receiving a request.
One of the best sources of help is FEMA's network of Disaster Recovery Centers. Applicants can get guidance on the appeal process at any of the 33 centers now open in Texas to support those affected by Hurricane Ike. Another option is FEMA's Helpline 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), TTY 1-800-462-7585, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week until further notice.
Applicants who receive an ineligibility letter can appeal the decision if they find circumstances have changed from the time they registered. Some may have discovered additional damage to their property, or find they need housing help after all.
Submitting repair estimates, receipts, statements or invoices helps applicants lodge an effective appeal. This new data could reverse an ineligibility determination.
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It is important that the letter include a personal phone number as well as a back-up phone number where the applicant also can be reached, in addition to a correct mailing address.
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The appeal letter must be submitted personally at a recovery center, be mailed and postmarked, or received by fax within 60 days of the date on the decision letter. Applicants should retain a copy of the appeal letter as a record.
- Information on how and where to file an appeal is included with denial letters and in the "Help After a Disaster" booklet that is included with registration packets.
Disaster assistance may include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repair and other serious disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other sources.
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: Wednesday, 12-Nov-2008 08:51:24