Dec. 12 Final Day To Apply For Disaster Assistance
Release Date: December 11, 2008
Release Number: 1791-324
» More Information on Texas Hurricane Ike
AUSTIN, Texas -- Friday, Dec. 12 is the final day for Texans who suffered damages from Hurricane Ike to register for disaster assistance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
State and federal officials said homeowners, renters, and business owners who suffered damages should register with FEMA by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), (TTY) 1-800-462-7585, or by visiting FEMA's Web site, www.fema.gov.
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 will remain committed to Texans' recovery efforts long after the registration deadline passes, and we're always just a phone call or mouse click away," said Federal Coordinating Officer Stephen M. De Blasio Sr.
Those who have already registered may check on their application status by calling the help line, which has an automated status update function; go to the FEMA web site; or visit any of the Disaster Recovery Centers that remain in the affected areas.
A listing of recovery centers is available at www.txdps.state.tx.us/dem/pages/dr1791_drc_list.htm.
The deadline to submit SBA loan applications for individuals and businesses is also Dec. 12. While no one is required to take out an SBA loan, applications are a key part of the FEMA application process. Individuals and businesses must register with FEMA first. Individuals who may not qualify for an SBA loan may be eligible for other forms of assistance. For information about SBA programs or to find a location nearby, applicants may call 1-800-659-2955 (TTY 1-800-877-8339), or visit SBA's website at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.
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, 11-Dec-2008 11:23:50