Federal Disaster Registration Is An Easy Process
Release Date: April 13, 2009
Release Number: 1830-006
» More Information on Minnesota Severe Storms and Flooding
MOORHEAD, Minn. -- Nearly 100 Minnesota residents have already found out there are two easy ways to apply for federal disaster assistance - by calling the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) toll-free number or going online.
The four Minnesota counties designated for Individual Assistance include Clay, Norman, Traverse and Wilkin. Anyone in those counties who suffered damage from the severe storms and flooding beginning March 16 and continuing now can register with FEMA.
Homeowners, renters, and business owners can apply by calling toll-free 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) (TTY 1-800-462-7585) or they can apply online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. The telephone numbers are operating from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. CDT seven days a week, until further notice. Multi-lingual operators are available.
When applying for help, be sure to have the following information available:
- Current telephone number;
- Address at the time of the disaster and the address where you now are staying;
- Social Security number, if available;
- A general list of damages and losses;
- If insured, the name of insurance company or agent and policy number;
- General financial information;
- Bank account coding to speed up assistance with direct deposit.
Even if residents have already filled out a damage report form with the state, county emergency managers or voluntary agency, they still must register with FEMA to be considered eligible for assistance under the federal disaster declaration.
By applying, applicants may be considered for assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Assistance could include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other serious, necessary disaster-related expenses such as damaged personal property, medical and dental expenses. Low-interest disaster loans from the SBA also will be available to cover residential (both renters and homeowners) and business physical and economic losses not fully compensated by insurance.
All residents also are encouraged to get involved with the recovery by helping spread the word about available assistance. Tell your neighbor.
Residents should register with FEMA even if they have insurance. FEMA does not duplicate insurance payments or pay deductibles, but applicants may be eligible for assistance with serious, necessary expenses not covered by insurance.
FEMA leads the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery and mitigation. The agency is committed to reducing the loss of life and property and supporting a culture of readiness for all hazards, including natural disasters, acts of terrorism and other catastrophes.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 14-Apr-2009 02:17:18