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Understanding a FEMA Determination Letter
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California residents who applied for assistance from FEMA after sustaining losses from the wildfires starting Aug. 14 may have received a letter saying they are ineligible for housing assistance.
This is called a determination letter. To understand why FEMA determined you to be ineligible, you must read the letter carefully to the end. It may be for a reason you can fix. Here are some of the more common reasons for FEMA’s decision:
No inspection
- When you registered, you reported the disaster did not make your home unsafe to live in.
- You will receive a “No Inspection” letter advising that FEMA did not inspect it because the damage was minor and you were able to occupy the home.
- If you find that the damage is worse than you originally reported—or you discover your private well or septic system is unusable due to the disaster—you may call the FEMA helpline to report this damage and an inspection may take place.
Insured
- FEMA determined insurance covered your essential needs. Federal assistance cannot duplicate insurance payments, but FEMA may be able to help if your insurance fell short of covering all your eligible losses. You may submit your insurance settlement records to FEMA for further review of your application.
The following reasons for ineligibility require an applicant to submit an appeal in writing to be reconsidered for assistance. The appeal must include a letter along with additional information or documentation.
No proof of occupancy
- You did not present evidence that you occupied the home at the time of the disaster. To appeal, you may show FEMA that you were living there at the time of the disaster using documents such as utility bills, a bank or credit card statement, phone bill, pay stubs, a driver’s license, state-issued ID card or voter registration card.
Insufficient damage
- An inspector determined the damage caused by the current disaster has not made your home unsafe to live in. Your home is safe, sanitary and functional.
- If you find that your home has sustained damage that caused you to be unable to live in it, you can appeal. To consider your appeal FEMA needs written third-party documentation of your damage --such as a bid for repairs or a condemnation notice -- that documents your home is uninhabitable.
No initial relocation
- You indicated on your application that you did not want to move while your damaged home was being repaired. This made you ineligible for FEMA temporary rental assistance.
- You may later find further damage to your home that makes it unsafe to occupy so that you must rent another place while your home is being repaired.
- Contact FEMA to update your housing status and explain why you had (or will have) to relocate. You can call the FEMA helpline within 30 days of the date on your letter to give a housing status update and request rental assistance. If your request for rental assistance is made more than 30 days after the letter’s date, you must request it in writing and explain the reason for your appeal.
To appeal a FEMA decision
Send a letter to FEMA with documentation related to your request and ask FEMA to reconsider your application. The deadline for making an appeal is 60 days from the date on your determination letter.
- By mail: FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055.
- By fax: 1-800-827-8112.
- By a FEMA online account: to set one up, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Status” and follow the directions.
Keep in mind that you may be eligible for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) or a grant under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program. If FEMA requests you to complete an SBA disaster loan application, visit https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ fill it out and submit the application. You do not have to take a loan if offered one.
There may be other reasons why FEMA determined you were ineligible. If you have questions about the letter you received and what your next step may be, get in touch with a FEMA specialist who can help you by calling 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. PDT. If you use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, provide FEMA the specific number assigned to that service when you register.
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bree-constance… Thu, 10/01/2020 - 10:32Nevada County added to August federal wildfire disaster declaration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Nevada County has been approved for federal assistance for emergency protective measures, debris removal and permanent repairs or rebuilding of community infrastructure as part of the major wildfire disaster declaration approved Aug. 22.
The State of California, local governments, federally recognized tribal governments and certain private nonprofits in the county can now request funding through FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program to help pay for debris removal, emergency protective measures and the repair or rebuilding of roads, bridges, water-control facilities, buildings, equipment, utilities, parks and recreation facilities.
FEMA Public Assistance has been expanded beyond debris removal and emergency protective measures in Nevada County to include permanent work repair or replacement of public infrastructure.
The federal cost share for reimbursed expenses is not less than 75 percent.
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bree-constance… Wed, 09/30/2020 - 19:08Santa Clara County added to August federal wildfire disaster declaration
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Santa Clara County has been approved for federal assistance to individuals and households, as well as for repairs or rebuilding of community infrastructure, as part of the major wildfire disaster declaration approved Aug. 22.
FEMA’s individual assistance program provides grants to help eligible survivors with financial assistance that may include rent, home repair, home replacement and other disaster-related needs such as childcare, medical and dental expenses.
Apply for disaster assistance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency online at www.disasterassistance.gov; by downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet; or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. PDT. If you use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, provide FEMA the specific number assigned to that service when you register.
U.S. Small Business Administration assistance
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has established a Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center to help homeowners and renters. Customer service representatives are available to assist business owners and individuals to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each person complete their electronic loan application.
Virtual Business Recovery Center and Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center
Mondays – Sundays
5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PDT
800-659-2955
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bree-constance… Wed, 09/30/2020 - 17:07Brewton Civic Center Hosts FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – A FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC) opens this week at Brewton in Escambia County. The center is a registration option available to Hurricane Sally survivors, especially those without access to internet service or telephone.
Impacted residents of Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties can visit the Brewton MRIC Thursday, Oct. 1 through Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Brewton Civic Center, 1010-C Douglas Ave., Brewton.
Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day (contingent on the weather).
Other MRICs now available to survivors include:
- Foley in Baldwin County. Open through Saturday, Oct. 3 at the Foley Satellite Courthouse, 201 E. Section Ave.
- Mobile in Mobile County. Open through Saturday, Oct. 3 at Bishop State Community College, 351 N. Broad St.
- Fairhope in Baldwin County. Operated by the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA). Open from Thursday, Oct. 1 through Saturday, Oct. 3 at 1100 Fairhope Ave.
- Robertsdale in Baldwin County. Open from Thursday, Oct. 1 through Saturday, Oct. 3 at Central Annex, 22251 Palmer St.
Hours of operation for all centers are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day (contingent on the weather).
The MRICs are part of FEMA’s and the State of Alabama’s ongoing response and recovery mission supporting hurricane survivors. MRICs are operated by FEMA and AEMA personnel and serve as a point of registration and information for eligible individuals and families. The centers are just one of a number of ways survivors can apply for federal disaster assistance. MRICs operate under protocols to protect the health and safety of registrants. Individuals are highly encouraged to wear masks or face coverings when visiting a center.
Survivors may also register for federal disaster assistance:
- Online at www.disasterassistance.gov;
- By downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet, or
- By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Helpline operators are also available to answer questions about applications already submitted.
Information that may be useful to have when you register includes:
- Address of the damaged primary dwelling where the damage occurred
- Current mailing address
- Current telephone number
- Insurance information and description of disaster-caused damage and loss
- Total household annual income
- Names and birth dates of family members who live in the household
- Name and Social Security number of co-applicant (if applicable)
- Routing and account number for checking or savings account so FEMA may directly transfer disaster assistance funds
For the latest information on Hurricane Sally, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563
felicia.jordan Wed, 09/30/2020 - 16:56Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Northumberland County, Va
PHILADELPHIA- FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Northumberland County, Va. Community stakeholders are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around Sept. 30, 2020. Residents and business owners are also encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.
Residents may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.
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An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
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Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
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If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.
The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator: Philip H. Marston, Zoning Administrator, Northumberland County, pmarston@co.northumberland.va.us, (804) 580-8910. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/1Gfq5b0.
For more information about the flood maps:
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Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon)
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Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood. There are cost saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
Northumberland County Flood Mapping Milestones
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April 18, 2019 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data
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Dec. 23, 2019 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released
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Feb. 19, 2020 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map, and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance
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On or Around Sept. 30, 2020–Appeal Period starts
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November 2021* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
Follow Us
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Stay informed of FEMA’s activities online: videos and podcasts are available at fema.gov/medialibrary and youtube.com/fema. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3.
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amanda.hancher Wed, 09/30/2020 - 15:49
Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Stafford County, VA
STAFFORD COUNTY, VA - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Stafford County, VA. Community stakeholders are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around Sept. 30, 2020. Residents and business owners are also encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.
Residents may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.
-
An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
-
Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
-
If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.
The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator: John Saunders, P.E., CFM, Environmental Programs Administrator, Stafford County, jsaunders@StaffordCountyva.gov , (540) 658-5192. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/15quqj.
For more information about the flood maps:
-
Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon)
-
Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood. There are cost saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
Stafford County, VA Flood Mapping Milestones
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March 11, 2019 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data
-
Dec. 23, 2019 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released
-
Feb. 19, 2020 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map, and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance
-
On or Around Sept. 30, 2020–Appeal Period starts
-
November 2021* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
Follow Us
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Stay informed of FEMA’s activities online: videos and podcasts are available at fema.gov/medialibrary and youtube.com/fema. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3.
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amanda.hancher Wed, 09/30/2020 - 15:47
FEMA Provides More Than $21.6 Million to Beaumont Health
CHICAGO - The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Michigan State Police/Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) announced today that $21,644,846 million has been made available in federal disaster aid for critical emergency medical care in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This grant funding is part of the recovery efforts for the federal disaster declaration of March 27, 2020. Beaumont Health, a system of hospitals throughout the state of Michigan, provided emergency medical care for COVID-19 patients and purchased medical supplies and equipment to eliminate the immediate threat to life, public health and safety during the period of January 20, 2020 and ongoing.
“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program is an important resource for communities affected by COVID-19,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This grant funding will support the state’s ongoing effort to address the COVID-19 pandemic by ensuring critical medical services are available across Michigan.”
“As we continue to combat the impacts of COVID-19 on our communities it’s important that we support our medical services that are on the frontline,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and commander of the Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division. “This funding will help Beaumont continue to support the COVID-19 response.”
The Public Assistance Program funding will be administered by MSP/EMHSD. FEMA provides a 75 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. The total project cost is $28,859,795.
FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for debris removal, disaster cleanup and emergency actions taken to protect lives or property. To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Wed, 09/30/2020 - 14:53All Have Equal Access to FEMA Recovery Programs
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – Disasters affect everyone in their path. That’s why all survivors must have equal access to FEMA programs and recovery efforts.
FEMA is committed to ensuring that people with disabilities or access and functional needs have the right to the same programs and services as the general population.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 38.1 percent of adults in Puerto Rico have some type of disability. Across the island and throughout the United States, FEMA provides accommodations at each step in the recovery process.
To support recovery from Tropical Storm Isaías, Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists help residents with applications and answer questions outside Disaster Recovery Centers in Aguada, Hormigueros and Rincón.
Newspapers, radio, television, sound trucks, social media, local officials, and private sector partners help to spread important recovery information in multiple languages.
Disaster Recovery Centers have adapted to the Covid-19 environment with new safety protocols, including the required use of masks or face coverings. Residents have a choice of making an appointment for an in-person visit by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
Anyone who just needs to provide paperwork can simply use the drive-thru, where no appointment is needed and staff will scan documents and return them to you.
An in-person visit to a Disaster Recovery Center allows access to technology equipment. Among the tools are amplified telephones, phones that display text, amplified listening devices for people with hearing loss and magnifiers for people with vision loss. Video Remote Interpreting is also available and in-person sign language is available by request.
Before the next storm, the deaf community can review “Preparing Makes Sense for People with Disabilities and Other Access and Functional Needs,” a FEMA video presented in English and sign language. Visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLLMDOScE4g.
For more information on Puerto Rico’s disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4560
and Facebook: www.facebook.com/femapuertorico.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362) or 711 for Video Relay Service. Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish.) TTY call 800-462-7585.
Follow us at:
www.facebook.com/femapuertorico
jassiel.oliveromelo Wed, 09/30/2020 - 11:49
FEMA Opens a Disaster Recovery Center in Tama County
DES MOINES, Iowa – A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open at 9 a.m. at the Meskwaki Casino RV Park on Monday, October 5, to give survivors from the August 10 severe storm options to submit documents for their disaster assistance application.
The DRC will be open for a limited time and is staffed with FEMA personnel who can scan documents and quickly answer questions about disaster assistance programs. It will close permanently on Saturday, October 10 at 6 p.m.
The DRC will not operate in a traditional fashion. The center will offer drive-through service. Survivors are asked to stay in their vehicles when visiting.
Applicants do not have to visit a center to submit documents to FEMA—they can mail, fax or submit them online at DisasterAssistance.gov as well. Information on these options can be found in their FEMA letter.
Survivors who have already registered with FEMA and have been asked to provide additional documentation should read their FEMA letter carefully and make sure they have everything they need when they arrive at the DRC.
If you do not understand the letter you received from FEMA, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Central Time, and ask for assistance.
The FEMA DRC is located:
Meskwaki Casino RV Park
1504 305th St
Tama, IA 52339
(The RV park is located behind the Casino and Casino parking deck)
DRC hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time
Closed Sunday
All applicants and FEMA personnel will follow current state and local COVID-19 safety requirements. Applicants must wear face masks and will remain in their cars as they hand their documents to FEMA personnel, who will be wearing face masks (or other appropriate face covering) and protective equipment. FEMA staff will take the documents, scan them and return them to the applicants.
Applicants may register in the following ways:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA Mobile App for smartphones.
- Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
If an individual cannot register online or by phone, registration at the DRC will be available.
Documents also may be submitted in any of the following ways:
- Mail to: FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055.
- Or fax to 800-827-8112.
- Or submit them via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Status” and follow the directions.
Renters Facing Eviction in Alabama May Be Eligible for Federal Help
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama renters who face eviction or have been evicted from their hurricane-damaged apartment complex may be eligible for disaster assistance from FEMA. This may be so even if they were previously determined ineligible for FEMA assistance.
Residents of Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties impacted by Hurricane Sally have several ways to apply for disaster assistance:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Use the FEMA mobile app.
- Call FEMA at 800-621-3362 (voice, 711 or VRS) or 800-462-7585 (TTY) anytime from 6 a.m. to midnight (Central Time) seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
If you have received a determination letter from FEMA but have since been evicted, call FEMA with your eviction papers in-hand to find out if you may be eligible to re-apply for assistance.
If you have already registered with and were later evicted due to damage to other parts of your complex, you can upload your eviction papers to your personal FEMA account at DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 for assistance.
Renters may be eligible for grants from FEMA to help with disaster-related expenses, such as:
- Renting a home when the renter’s previous home is unsafe to live in due to the disaster or their apartment complex is under repair.
- Disaster-related medical and dental expenses.
- Child-care assistance.
- Moving and storage fees.
- Replacement or repair of necessary personal property lost or damaged in the disaster, such as appliances and furniture, textbooks and computers used by students, and work equipment or tools used by independent contractors.
- Repair or replacement of vehicles damaged by the disaster.
- Uninsured and out-of-pocket disaster-related funeral and burial expenses.
The grants are not loans and do not have to be repaid. They are not taxable income and won’t affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid, welfare assistance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and several other programs.
Renters may be able to borrow up to $40,000 to replace storm-damaged or destroyed personal property, such as clothing, furniture, appliances and cars.
Before applying for an SBA loan, you must first register with FEMA. You may then apply to SBA by visiting the SBA’s Disaster Loan Application.
If you have already registered with FEMA, the agency can transfer your information to SBA.
FEMA wants to make sure that every disaster survivor has equal access to disaster information and assistance. Renters who are deaf or hard of hearing may view a video on available assistance.
felicia.jordan Wed, 09/30/2020 - 10:57FEMA Obligates $9.5 Million to Repair the Roberto Clemente Municipal Sports Complex
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — The Roberto Clemente Municipal Sports Complex in Carolina will be rebuilt with help of an obligation of nearly $9.5 million from FEMA.
The facility consists of various structures built between 1988 and 2009. These include a playground for children with access and functional needs, the Guillermo Angulo Coliseum and a Sports Hall of Fame, among others.
“This month we celebrated Roberto Clemente’s official day and we are honored to be able to help rebuild these sports centers that are part of his legacy. The facilities where sports are practiced are part of the fabric of our communities and are key to the recovery of the Island,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, José Baquero Tirado.
The nearly 180,000 residents of Carolina, known as the Land of the Giants, will benefit from a renovated complex that includes the replacement of over 49,800 square feet of athletic running track surface. Likewise, the electric generator at the administrative building that is on the premises will also be replaced. Meanwhile, over 6,500 square feet of maple basketball flooring at the Guillermo Angulo Coliseum will be replaced, along with the installation of a digital scoreboard and 5,000 square feet of waterproof membranes on the roof.
In addition, this obligation represents an economic impact for the city, as it is estimated that it will generate about 200 direct and indirect jobs. Also, programs that provide employment to a number of sports enthusiasts such as coaches, teachers and other professionals in these areas will be able to be resume.
“Repairing these facilities will give Carolina the opportunity to improve the quality of life, physical health and emotional strength of the thousands of citizens who annually practice sports or participate in the different recreational-sports programs that take place there. This important investment manages to enhance the opportunities and skills of not only the thousands of residents who regularly engage in activities that improve their health, but also that of visitors from other towns who enjoy these facilities,” said the mayor of Carolina, José Carlos Aponte Dalmau.
Around $203,000 of the obligation is intended for measures to help lessen the effects caused by damage from future disasters. Some of the work include adding a surge protector to protect electrical equipment, replacing acoustical drop ceiling tiles with a water and mold resistant ones, replacing fiberglass poles with aluminum poles and substituting gypsum board with water resistant dry wall, among other measures.
“Sports facilities in Puerto Rico have a significant role in the communities, they serve as meeting points, and as recreational, physical and educational development centers. In the recovery process of the Island, these facilities are an important part of the reconstruction. At COR3 we will support the municipality of Carolina in any effort that requires it and we will keep working in coordination with FEMA to continue obligating funds for the reconstruction projects,” said the Executive Director for COR3, Ottmar Chávez.
The Roberto Clemente Municipal Sports Complex includes 10 facilities for the use and enjoyment of athletes and people of all ages. Born in barrio San Antón in Carolina, Clemente became the first Latin American player to accomplish 3,000 hits, won 12 consecutive Golden Glove Awards for his excellence on the field and led the 1971 World Series. In 1973 he became the first Latino inducted to the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
To date, FEMA has obligated nearly $19 billion for costs related to hurricanes Irma and Maria, including projects to help rebuild infrastructure throughout Puerto Rico. FEMA works with COR3 through the agency’s Public Assistance program to obligate recovery funds to private nonprofit organizations, municipalities and agencies of the Government of Puerto Rico.
For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on our social networks at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.
frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 09/30/2020 - 07:34FEMA Registration Intake Centers to Open in Mobile, Brewton and Fairhope
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Three FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Centers (MRICs) will open this week for Hurricane Sally survivors who are residents of Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties.
- One, in Mobile County, will operate from Wednesday, Sept. 30 through Saturday, Oct. 3. The center will be located at Bishop State Community College, 351 N. Broad St. in Mobile.
- Another MRIC will open in Brewton from Thursday, Oct.1 through Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Brewton Civic Center, 1010 C Douglas Ave., Brewton in Escambia County.
- And a third, made available by the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA), will open in Fairhope from Thursday, Oct. 1 through Saturday, Oct. 3, at 1100 Fairhope Ave., Fairhope in Baldwin County.
In addition, MRICs in Atmore and Foley, which opened on Sunday, have extended their days of operation.; Foley through Saturday, Oct. 3. They also are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (contingent on the weather). They are located:
- The Atmore MRIC will remain open through Wednesday, Sept. 30, on the parking lot in the Atmore City Hall Complex, 201 E Louisville Ave., Atmore in Escambia County.
- The Foley MRIC will be open through Saturday, Oct. 3 at the Foley Satellite Courthouse, 201 E. Section Ave., Foley in Baldwin County.
Hours of operation for all centers are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day (contingent on the weather).
The MRICs are part of FEMA’s and the State of Alabama’s ongoing response and recovery mission supporting hurricane survivors. MRICs are operated by FEMA and AEMA personnel and serve as a point of registration and information for eligible individuals and families. “Mobile Registration Intake Centers are one registration option available to hurricane survivors, especially those without access to internet service or telephones,” said State Coordinating Officer Jeff Smitherman. “We want every eligible survivor to register with FEMA and apply for federal disaster assistance. The centers are just one of a number of ways they can do that.”
These centers operate under protocols to protect the health and safety of registrants. Survivors are highly encouraged to wear masks or face coverings when visiting an MRIC.
Additional MRICs will open in Baldwin, Mobile, and Escambia counties in the coming days. The locations and dates will be announced when details are finalized.
Survivors may also register for federal disaster assistance:
- Online at www.disasterassistance.gov;
- By downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet, or
- By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Helpline operators are also available to answer questions about applications already submitted.
Information that may be useful to have when you register includes:
- Address of the damaged primary dwelling where the damage occurred
- Current mailing address
- Current telephone number
- Insurance information and description of disaster-caused damage and loss
- Total household annual income
- Names and birth dates of family members who live in the household
- Name and Social Security number of co-applicant (if applicable)
- Routing and account number for checking or savings account so FEMA may directly transfer disaster assistance funds
For the latest information on Hurricane Sally, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563
felicia.jordan Tue, 09/29/2020 - 13:33FEMA Opens $660 Million Grant Application Process
New Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Grant for $500 Million Included
WASHINGTON – FEMA will open applications Wednesday for two hazard mitigation grant programs totaling $660 million.
The two grant programs, the Flood Mitigation Assistance grant and the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant, or BRIC, will provide funds to states, local communities, tribes and territories for eligible mitigation activities. These programs allow for funding to be used on projects that will reduce future disaster losses and strengthen our nation’s ability to build a culture of preparedness.
This will be the first time FEMA has offered the BRIC grant, which was made possible by the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018, allowing for a stable funding source to fund mitigation projects annually.
“BRIC represents significant work and support from Congress, our partners across the country and our staff to form, and now finally implement, this grant,” said FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor. “We know that mitigation measures save lives and prevent disaster damages, but now we are taking an active step in ensuring we build our nation’s infrastructure to withstand the hazards we face.”
The new BRIC grant is for pre-disaster mitigation activities and replaces FEMA’s existing Pre-Disaster Mitigation program. BRIC will offer $500 million in grants to help support states, tribes, territories and communities throughout the nation as they design and begin new infrastructure projects – projects that will reduce future disaster recovery costs and help save lives. The program will also provide incentives to local governments to adopt and enforce modern building codes.
FEMA is also opening the application period for the Flood Mitigation Assistance grants. There is $160 million available in flood mitigation grants, with $70 million of that amount set aside for community flood mitigation projects.
These grants are used for projects that reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings that are insured by the National Flood Insurance Program. Projects are selected based on the cost-effectiveness and eligibility of the proposal. FEMA has provided more than $1.3 billion on more than 2,900 flood mitigation projects since these grants began in 1996.
Both grant applications will be open from Sept. 30 – Jan. 21, 2021. Eligible applicants must apply for funding using the new FEMA Grants Outcome (FEMA GO). Applications received by FEMA after this deadline will not be considered for funding.
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zella.campbell Tue, 09/29/2020 - 13:26September 30 is Last Day to Apply for Federal Assistance
Registration and disaster information is still available by calling the FEMA helpline, going online or using the FEMA mobile app, as follows:
- Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free numbers operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
- Go online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App.
The end of the registration period does not mean FEMA is leaving. The Agency will continue working with the Michigan Department of State Police/Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division to help survivors and communities in their long-term rebuilding and recovery efforts.
Once you’ve registered, it’s important to stay in touch with FEMA to track your application or to notify the agency of changes to your mailing or email addresses or phone numbers, and to report insurance settlements, ongoing unmet needs or additional damage you may have discovered.
FEMA staff may contact you for various reasons, including to discuss your case or request additional information. Answer those phone calls to make sure your application process continues. If you are in any doubt when receiving a call from someone stating they work for FEMA, do not give out any information, but call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET to verify the call is legitimate.
The SBA helps businesses, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property.
To apply for a low-interest disaster loan before the Sept. 30 deadline, complete an online application at disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/. To reach an SBA Customer Service Representative directly call 800-659-2955. Email questions to FOCE-Help@sba.gov. For more information, visit sba.gov/.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs.
If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
English: www.fema.gov/disaster/4547
troy.christensen Tue, 09/29/2020 - 10:35FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Zogg Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Zogg Fire burning in Shasta County.
On Sept. 28, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Zogg Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 1,600 homes in and around the communities of Igo, Ono, Platina, West Redding, West Valley and Happy Valley. The fire also threatened a power transmission line, four fire stations, the Shasta County Dump and portions of the Sacramento River watershed.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Sept. 28, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Tue, 09/29/2020 - 10:22Federal Assistance for Alabama Hurricane Survivors Tops $11 Million
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Hurricane Sally survivors in Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties have been approved for more than $11 million in federal disaster assistance in just over one week since President Trump signed a major disaster declaration for Alabama.
Through Sept. 28, FEMA has approved housing grants to individuals and families totaling $11,153,079.
“Hurricane Sally took a punch to our coastal areas, but thanks in part to the millions of dollars in federal assistance, the people of Alabama are moving along the road to recovery,” Governor Ivey said. “I remain grateful to President Trump, Administrator Gaynor and their teams for prioritizing the people of Alabama reeling from Hurricane Sally. We will get through this together; we have done it before, and we will do it again.”
Housing Assistance (HA) grants for repairs to primary residences or for renting temporary housing totaled more than $8.9 million. Other Needs Assistance (ONA) grants to cover childcare, moving and storage, medical and dental expenses, etc. totaled just over $2.1 million.
In addition, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $570,900 in long-term, low-interest disaster loans for to cover repairs to homes damaged by Hurricane Sally.
Homeowners and renters in Baldwin, Mobile and Escambia counties should apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. Residents of these three Alabama counties may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from the hurricane. You may register for FEMA disaster assistance online by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. Multi-lingual operators are available. The toll-free lines are open daily, 6 a.m. to midnight (Central Time). If you have a homeowner’s insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately before applying for federal assistance. Get the process started quickly. The faster you file, the faster your recovery can begin.
Information that may be useful to have when you register includes:
- Address of the damaged primary dwelling where the damage occurred
- Current mailing address
- Current telephone number
- Insurance information and description of disaster-caused damage and loss
- Total household annual income
- Names and birth dates of family members who live in the household
- Name and Social Security number of co-applicant (if applicable)
- Routing and account number for checking or savings account so FEMA may directly transfer disaster assistance funds
For the latest information on Hurricane Sally, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563
felicia.jordan Mon, 09/28/2020 - 17:19
Harvey households with FEMA group flood insurance policies: Buy standard policy by Oct. 24
AUSTIN, Texas – Approximately 6,690 Hurricane Harvey survivors have been notified that their Group Flood Insurance Policy (GFIP) will expire Oct. 24. These three-year policies end soon, so policyholders must plan now to switch to a standard flood insurance policy to ensure continuous flood insurance coverage.
Following the devastating disasters and hurricane season of 2017, FEMA purchased GFIP policies for thousands of disaster survivors whose homes were flooded. Part of the eligibility of receiving future financial assistance after a flood is that a homeowner or renter must obtain and maintain flood insurance to ensure that there is no lapse in coverage. If a property affected by a flood is sold, the new owners are required to have flood insurance for the property as well.
This means Harvey households who received a group policy need to purchase a new, standard flood insurance policy, or obtain other flood insurance for at least the amount of assistance that they received for repairs and replacement of property, in order to remain eligible for future FEMA assistance. Those who received a GFIP policy as part of their FEMA disaster assistance after Harvey but don’t buy a standard flood insurance policy will likely not receive federal disaster assistance for home repairs if they experience another flood event.
Flood Insurance Can Be Key to Recovery
Flood insurance policies are crucial to recover quickly following a flood event as homeowners and renters’ policies do not typically cover flood damage.
Additionally, flood insurance will pay claims regardless of whether there is a major disaster declaration. Flood insurance claims can be paid for such events as flash flooding, storm sewer backup, river overflow, storm surge, mudslides or tropical systems.
Since its inception in 1968, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid more than $69 billion in flood claims to help survivors rebuild their lives following flood events.
- To find an insurance carrier or agent, visit FloodSmart.gov, or call FEMA NFIP Direct toll-free, (800) 638-6620, option 2.
- For more information about the National Flood Insurance Program and or insurance, call the National Flood Insurance General Call Center at 800-427-4661.
- If you have questions about your Group Flood Insurance Policy call the National Flood Insurance Direct Call Center at 800-638-6620.
To find out if you have a flood insurance requirement, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (voice, 711/VRS - Video Relay Service) (TTY: 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish). The Texas Recovery Office GFIP Help Desk phone number is 877-503-6053.
Harvey impacted 41,500 square miles of Texas. If it rains it can flood, which means all Texans should purchase or renew flood insurance policies. The 2020 hurricane season began June 1 and ends on November 30, but a policy protects you from financial losses from other flood events all year. Just 1 inch of water can cause $25,000 of damage to a home.
Carmen.Castro Mon, 09/28/2020 - 16:47
How to Appeal a FEMA Decision on Assistance
BATON ROUGE, La. – Survivors who registered with FEMA for disaster assistance as a result of Hurricane Laura will receive a determination letter explaining the eligibility decision and the reason for that decision.
For those who are eligible, the letter states the dollar amount of the grant and how the funds should be used. When ineligible, the letter explains why and how the applicant can appeal that decision.
It’s important to read the determination letter carefully to identify the reason for being declared ineligible. Some common reasons include:
- The person is insured and needs to provide an insurance settlement or denial to be considered for assistance.
- Additional information is needed from the survivor, i.e. proof of identity, proof of occupancy, annual income, or a childcare assistance letter.
- There were multiple registrations using the same address.
- Damage to a secondary residence (where the survivor lives less than six months of the year).
- The home is safe to occupy, and/or personal property had minimum or no damage.
- Missed inspections and no follow-up communication with FEMA.
- FEMA is unable to contact the applicant.
Many of these issues can be easily resolved by visiting a Drive-through Disaster Recovery Center or calling the FEMA helpline: 800-621-3362 (TTY) 800-462-7585. To find the nearest drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC (Your Zip Code) for example DRC 12345.
Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
If that does not resolve the problem, everyone has a right of appeal. To do so, an applicant must send a letter to FEMA asking for a reconsideration and explaining in detail why the appeal is being filed.
FEMA will need the applicant’s full name, address of pre-disaster residence, current phone number and address, and signature. The appeal must be postmarked within 60 days of the date the FEMA denial letter was received.
Include the statement, “I hereby declare under the penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.”
Date the appeal letter, include your nine-digit FEMA application number and the disaster code (DR-4559-LA), and mail or fax it to:
FEMA National Processing Service Center
P. O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
Fax: 800-827-8112; Attention: FEMA
An easy way to provide any additional information needed is by setting up an online account and uploading documents there.
To set up a disaster assistance account:
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- Go to https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
- Select the Create Account button at the bottom of the page and follow instructions.
- A PIN will be sent to the email address on file. Then log into the account.
- You can then upload your important documents in the Upload Center. (This page takes you to the login if you are returning to add more documents: https://go.usa.gov/xUPX5.)
For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.
christopher.teed Mon, 09/28/2020 - 16:23FEMA Continues to Provide Critical Supplies to State and Tribal Partners Throughout New England
Six months after federal disaster declarations for COVID-19, FEMA Region 1 continues to support its state and tribal partners in New England by providing financial relief, coordinating federal resources and delivering critical supplies in the fight against the deadly pandemic and the concurrent economic disaster.
In March, the region and nation faced a critical shortage of essential supplies—including personal protective and life-saving equipment necessary to support strained health care systems and slow the spread of the virus.
“In response, our logistics team secured an 86,000 square-foot warehouse, ramped up operations, streamlined procedures and moved mountains of those critical supplies,” said Capt. Russ Webster, the FEMA Regional Administrator who also serves as the Federal Coordinating Officer for the region’s response. “We helped ensure the health, safety and well-being of our fellow New Englanders.”
Examples of supplies include personal protective equipment (PPE) for frontline workers and health care professionals, food to help families who faced economic hardships due to COVID-19, and disinfectants to clean surfaces and kill the coronavirus.
To supplement the Strategic National Stockpile, the regional team from FEMA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) set up a supply taskforce to achieve better pricing, quicker delivery, and greater reliability of medical equipment and supplies for the region’s six states and ten tribal partners.
Specifically, the regional taskforce sourced vendors, procured resources based on projected needs and specific requests, allocated supplies based on well-defined algorithms, and arranged for deliveries. That joint effort served as a model for the nation.
FEMA’s Franklin, Massachusetts warehouse deliveries had to be received, tracked, unloaded, sorted and reloaded. To date, FEMA Region 1 warehouse workers have moved more than 22 million pieces of equipment and commodities.
That’s more than 500 truckloads—including semi-trucks, box trucks and panel vans—that rolled in and out of the warehouse.
Examples of outbound loads:
- More than 20 million pieces of personal protective equipment to protect frontline workers and health care professionals—including 1.7 million N95 respirators, 3.1 million KN95 respirators, 275,000 face shields, 400,000 surgical gowns, 1 million Tyvek suits, 1.6 million procedural gowns, and 6 million pairs of clinical gloves. Additional protective gear includes 5 million cloth face coverings given away to infrastructure workers, first responders, schoolchildren, nursing home residents and food producers who did not need medical-grade PPE for their daily use.
- More than 1.7 million boxed meals, low-sodium meals and meals-ready-to-eat to help households and families who faced economic hardships due to COVID-19. Driven by requests from state and tribal partners, those meals went to food pantries, homeless shelters, senior centers and other community-based organizations.
- More than 90,000 units of hand sanitizer (including bottles and 55-gallon drums), 700,000 boxes of disinfectant wipes and 500,000 units of soaps to clean hands and surfaces and kill the coronavirus. State and tribal partners then distributed the items.
While New England states and tribes continue to partner with federal agencies during this global public health crisis, they also work together to identify the entire region’s needs for essential resources, aggregate demand among the states, reap bulk discounts and work towards stabilizing the supply chain.
“Logistics—along with a unity of effort—clearly play an integral part in the war against COVID-19,” said Gary Kleinman, ASPR Region 1 Administrator who also serves as the Federal Health Coordinating Officer for the region’s response. “We’re better together.”
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
Note to editors: For more information about FEMA Region 1 warehouse operations or to schedule an interview with FCO Webster or FHCO Kleinman, please contact the FEMA News Desk by phone at (540) 533-0140 or email FEMA-R1COVIDNewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov .
adrien.urbani Mon, 09/28/2020 - 11:46
Flood Insurance Policies Expiring This Year
ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Following the devastating disasters and hurricane season of 2017, FEMA purchased three-year flood insurance policies for thousands of disaster survivors whose homes were flooded. Those policies are set to expire this year, and survivors need to purchase a new flood insurance policy, or obtain other flood insurance, in order to remain eligible for future FEMA assistance.
Part of the eligibility of receiving financial assistance after a flood is that a homeowner or renter must obtain and maintain flood insurance to ensure that there is no lapse in coverage. If a property affected by a flood is sold, the new owners are required to have flood insurance for the property as well.
Participants must purchase a flood insurance policy or they will be ineligible to receive most forms of assistance in subsequent disasters.
In the U.S. Virgin Islands there are 15 policies expiring from hurricanes Irma and Maria.
Flood Insurance Can Be Key to Recovery Flood insurance policies are crucial to recover quickly following a flood event as homeowners and renters’ policies do not typically cover flood damage.
Additionally, flood insurance will pay claims regardless of whether there is a major disaster declaration. Flood insurance claims can be paid for such events as flash flooding, storm sewer backup, river overflow, storm surge, mudslides or tropical systems.
Since its inception in 1968, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid more than $69 billion in flood claims to help survivors rebuild their lives following flood events.
- To find an insurance carrier or agent, visit FloodSmart.gov, or call FEMA NFIP Direct toll-free, (800) 638-6620, option 2.
- For more information about the National Flood Insurance Program and or insurance, call the National Flood Insurance General Call Center at 800-427-4661.
- If you have questions about your Group Flood Insurance Policy, call the National Flood Insurance Direct Call Center at 800-638-6620.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after a disaster.
Follow us on social media at twitter.com/femaregion2 and www.facebook.com/FEMAUSVirginIslands
gina.callaghan Mon, 09/28/2020 - 10:55
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