Get the Fact:: Dispelling Common Misconceptions about Disaster Assistance 

Release Date: September 19, 2007
Release Number: 1717-029

» More Information on Minnesota Severe Storms and Flooding

ROCHESTER, Minn. -- In the days and weeks following a disaster, residents may be misled by rumors concerning recovery help. The best way to avoid misinformation is to verify facts with a reliable source. Below are some common misconceptions about disaster assistance, along with the facts, according to officials from Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) and the U.S Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

I have insurance, so there's no other help available to me.
Not True. Insurance is your first and main source for money to put your life back in order after a disaster. However, insurance may not cover everything. That's where federal and state disaster programs may be able to help. You may register with FEMA even before the insurance adjuster visits. Many victims find they are "underinsured" - and disaster assistance may help make up the difference.

I have applied for disaster assistance after previous disasters, so I don't need to apply again.
Not True. Even if you have applied for disaster assistance before, you must apply again to be considered for help following the most recent disaster declaration.

I have received disaster assistance for previous disasters, so I'm not eligible for help now.
Not True. Even if you received assistance before, you can still register and receive assistance.

I've already received a check for repairs from FEMA. While making repairs, I found additional damage, but FEMA will not consider additional reimbursement.
Not true. If you find additional damage, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 and tell us about it. We may be able to help.

Any financial assistance I receive from FEMA may come out of my Social Security check.
Not True. Assistance funds do not come out of Social Security and won't affect your Social Security check.

There may not be enough money for everyone, and my neighbor needs the money more than I do.
Not True. There are enough disaster funds to take care of every eligible applicant.

I have to wait for my insurance adjuster before I apply for disaster assistance.
Not True. You do not have to wait for an agent or adjuster's inspection before applying for disaster assistance or repairing your home so that it is safe, sanitary and functional. However, if you have insurance, you should find out what your policy covers and be sure to keep papers and receipts for any work. If you still have unmet disaster-related needs, FEMA may be able to help. Apply by the Oct. 22 registration deadline to keep that option open.

I already repaired my home. It's too late to apply.
Not True. You could qualify for reimbursement of expenses not covered by your insurance. Keep all receipts for disaster-related repairs.

I got help from the Red Cross, so I'm already registered with FEMA.
Not True. Registering with the Red Cross, other voluntary agencies or local and county officials is not the same as applying with FEMA. For federal disaster assistance, you must apply by calling the special toll-free number: 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585.

I have to be low-income to qualify for disaster aid.
Not True. Federal and state disaster assistance programs may be available to those who suffered damage, regardless of income. The programs are not welfare. The kinds of help provided depend on the applicant's circumstances and unmet needs.

I have to be turned down by my bank before I can apply for a disaster loan.
Not True. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which handles low-interest disaster loans for individuals and businesses, has its own criteria for determining each loan applicant's eligibility. The SBA will decide whether or not you are able to repay a loan. If you are not qualified for a loan, you may be eligible for other assistance, but it is necessary to go through the SBA application process first.

I must own a business to apply for a loan from the SBA.
Not True. Don't let the name fool you. In a presidential declaration, the SBA is an important source of financial assistance. Renters and homeowners may be eligible for low-interest disaster loans for home or personal property losses based on the type and extent of uninsured or underinsured disaster-related losses.

I rent an apartment. I can't get help to replace my damaged property.
Not True. A renter may qualify for an SBA low-interest disaster loan to replace personal property. FEMA grants may cover temporary housing needs if a renter has to move to another dwelling. Grants may also cover disaster-related needs and expenses that are not covered by insurance or other disaster assistance programs.

I'm self-employed and out of work; I can't qualify for disaster unemployment benefits.
Not True. Disaster Unemployment Assistance, funded by FEMA and administered by the state of Minnesota, provides benefits for workers who would not normally qualify for unemployment compensation. Applications are available at the Winona and Rochester WorkForce Centers and online at www.uimn.org. To receive applications by mail, contact Unemployment Insurance Customer Service toll free at 1-877-504-5050 or TTY 1-866-814-1252, or within the Twin Cities calling area at 651-284-3033.

Those affected by the severe storms and flooding can begin applying for federal disaster assistance by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- or hearing-impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers operate from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. (local time) seven days a week. Individuals can also register online at www.fema.gov.

When applying, make sure you have the following information available:

People who have already registered for assistance can check on the status of their application by calling the same toll-free numbers listed above.

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, 20-Sep-2007 08:05:30