Applying For FEMA Disaster Assistance—Frequently Asked Questions 

Release Date: May 4, 2009
Release Number: 1834-007

» More Information on Arkansas Severe Storms and Tornadoes

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Arkansans living in Miller, Polk and Sevier counties affected by the severe storms and tornadoes of April 9 may be eligible for Individual Assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). To be considered for assistance, residents must first apply with FEMA.

How do I apply?
There are two ways to apply for disaster assistance. Residents can apply online at www.fema.gov (or www.disasterassistance.gov) or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- or hearing-impaired. Lines are open from 8 a.m. to midnight, daily.

What kinds of assistance are available?
Individual Assistance can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance or other aid programs. Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available to cover residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance. Grants do not have to be repaid, but loans from the SBA must be repaid.

Am I eligible for Individual Assistance if I already have insurance?
You should apply for assistance even if you have insurance, because you may find you are under-insured or have unmet needs after your insurance settlement. If you have not already contacted your insurance agent to file a claim, please do this as soon as possible. Failure to file a claim with your insurance company may affect your eligibility for assistance. Insurance is your main source for money to put your life back in order after a disaster. But there are many things that insurance does not cover, so disaster programs may be able to help.

I have applied; what happens next?
After you apply, FEMA will mail you a copy of your application and a copy of "Help After a Disaster: Applicant's Guide to the Individuals and Households Program," which will answer many of your questions. This useful publication explains how FEMA's disaster assistance program works; describes additional kinds of help you may qualify for from other federal, state and voluntary agencies; and gives you many important tips on how to best make all these programs work for you.

If your home or its contents are damaged, a FEMA-contracted inspector should contact you within five days after you apply to schedule a time to meet you at your damaged home. All inspectors carry photo ID that shows they are affiliated with the U.S. government. If you get an SBA Disaster Loan application in the mail, complete it and return it. Individuals who do not qualify for SBA loans may be referred to other disaster aid programs and filing an application doesn't obligate anyone to accept a loan. Failure to return the SBA application may result in your application being placed on hold.

How can I check the status of my case?
Go to www.fema.gov (or www.disasterassistance.com) or call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362 (FEMA) or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585 for the hearing- or speech-impaired. You can also check the status at any Disaster Recovery Center.

Do I have to be a legal U.S. resident to receive Individual Assistance?
Yes. To be eligible for monetary assistance from FEMA you must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien. A qualified alien includes individuals who are lawful residents.

Is there any assistance available for undocumented immigrants?
You may apply for Individual Assistance on behalf of your child who is a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien or another adult household member may qualify for household assistance if he or she is a documented immigrant. You may also be eligible for assistance programs run by state or voluntary agencies.

FEMA leads and supports the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation, to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the nation from all hazards including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters.

Last Modified: Monday, 04-May-2009 12:13:22