FEMA Offers More Equitable Flood Insurance Rates Beginning Oct. 1

WASHINGTON -- Beginning Oct. 1, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will begin to offer more equitable and risk informed rates.

The new premiums are the result of the program’s new pricing methodology delivering rates that are actuarily sound, equitable, easier to understand and better reflect an individual property’s flood risk.

New policies will be sold using the new methodology, and some existing policyholders may be eligible for immediate premium decreases when their policy renews. 

To date, FEMA has provided more than 2.8 million quotes and trained 20,792 agents.

Potential and existing policyholders can learn their specific rates with a call to their insurance company or agent.

“The NFIP’s new rating methodology is long overdue since it hasn’t been updated in more than 40 years,” said David Maurstad, senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “Now is the right time to modernize how risk is identified, priced and communicated. By doing so we empower policyholders to make informed decisions to protect their homes and businesses from life-changing flooding events that will strike in the months and years ahead due to climate change.”

Also known as Risk Rating 2.0, the new methodology uses increased technological and mapping capabilities to determine and communicate a property’s full flood risk. In addition, the new rating methodology has exposed inequities in pricing whereby some policyholders have been unjustly subsidizing other policyholders.  

More Equitable Rates

The new methodology considers the cost to rebuild along with several other flood variables to determine a property’s true flood risk.

Under the legacy pricing system, every policyholder would have seen rate increases now and into the future. Beginning Oct. 1, about 23% -- or more than 1 million -- policyholders will see a decrease in their premium at the time of their policy’s renewal. These policyholders with older pre-Flood Insurance Rate Map homes have some of the highest rates in the nation under the current rating methodology.

Sharing Information with the Public

FEMA has shared information about the new methodology on FEMA.gov that explains in detail the rating system methodology as well as providing rate impacts at the state, county and ZIP code level.

Phased Rollout

Conscious of the far-reaching economic impacts of COVID-19, the agency decided to take a phased approach to rolling out the new rates: 

• Beginning Oct. 1, 2021
  • Existing National Flood Insurance Program policyholders will be able to take advantage of decreases at the time of the policy’s renewal.
  • New policies will be subject to the new pricing methodology, which reflects a property’s full risk rate.
• Beginning, April 1, 2022
  •  All remaining policies will be written under the new pricing plan at the time of renewal allowing these policyholders extra time to prepare.

Incremental Increases

Under the previous methodology, all policyholders received annual increases year after year without knowing their full risk rate. While some policyholders will experience a decrease under the new methodology, others will experience an increase that is commensurate with their full risk rate. By statute, most rate increases are capped at 18% per year.

Maintaining Benefits

The new methodology maintains features that have benefitted communities and flood insurance policyholders:

• FEMA will continue to offer premium discounts for pre-Flood Insurance Rate Map subsidized and newly mapped properties.
• Policyholders will still be able to transfer their discount to a new owner by assigning their flood insurance policy when their property changes ownership.
• Discounts of 5%-45% to policyholders in communities who participate in the Community Rating System (CRS) will continue and will be extended to  all policies in the community instead of just  those located in the high-risk area.

Climate Change Considerations

The new methodology adapts to climate change by using the full range of flood risk across a suite of catastrophe models -- both government models and private sector models.

Because actuarial rates are based on the expected claims during the one-year policy period, they should reflect today’s risk. Future rates will be updated to reflect any changes, including climate impacts.

Policyholders who have questions about their new rate should contact their insurance company or agent.

For more information visit FEMA.gov.

zella.campbell Fri, 09/24/2021 - 17:27

FEMA Grant Helps Pay for 14 New Storm-Resistant Traffic Signals in Bay County, FL

PENSACOLA, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $2,458,610 for the Bay County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) to fund the upgrade of 14 traffic signals throughout the county.

Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by the Bay County BOCC following Hurricane Michael in 2018. The grant will help pay for the replacement of 14 span wire traffic signals with new mast arm signals that are intended to improve safety, functionality and performance.

Mast arm-mounted signals are designed to withstand winds of 144 mph, are effective at intersections closer to the coastline and allow for the use of illuminated street signs that display the cross street name.

Seven new traffic signals will be located along intersections on 11th Street, two each along Thomas Drive and CR 389 and one at the intersection of Joan and North Lagoon streets. New mast arm signals will also be located near the Youngstown and Bayou George Fire Departments.

The HMGP provides funding to help communities eliminate or reduce disaster-related damage. Following a major disaster, a percentage of a state’s total federal recovery grants is calculated to help develop more resilient communities. Florida has an Enhanced Hazard Mitigation Plan that allows more funding to be available for post-disaster resilience projects. States with the enhanced plan receive HMGP funds based on 20% of their total estimated eligible federal disaster assistance.

Kimberly.Kipp Fri, 09/24/2021 - 15:28

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Fawn 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 Fawn Fire burning in Shasta County.

On Sept. 23, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Fawn Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 1,900 residential structures in and around Shasta Lake. The fire also threatened 100 commercial structures, two churches, an elementary school, Shasta College, Interstate 5, Bella Vista Water System, power transmission lines and cell towers that could impact 911 emergency communication systems.

The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Sept. 23, 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.

robert.barker Fri, 09/24/2021 - 14:59

Survivors: Beware of Fraud, Scams After Disasters

Trenton, NJ – After a disaster, scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals often try to take advantage of disaster survivors. Federal and state emergency management officials urge residents to watch for and report any suspicious activity.

When a disaster strikes, unscrupulous people may try to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster-aid workers trying to help survivors complete their applications.

Common post-disaster fraud practices include: Fake offers of state or federal aid:

• Federal and state workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) personnel never charge survivors for applying for disaster assistance, inspections or help in completing applications.

Phony property inspectors:

• FEMA inspectors will never ask for your social security number.

• No government disaster assistance official will call you to ask for your financial account information. If you doubt a FEMA representative is legitimate, hang up and call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET.to report the incident.

• FEMA’s housing inspectors never charge a fee to inspect your property.

Phony building contractors:

• A FEMA housing inspector’s job is to verify damage. FEMA does not hire or endorse specific contractors to fix homes or recommend repairs.
• FEMA recommends hiring a reputable engineer, architect or building official to inspect your home. An unethical contractor may create damage to get work.
• When in doubt, report any suspicious behavior to your local authorities.

Hire a legitimate contractor:

• Always use a licensed local contractor who has reliable references.
• Require a written contract from anyone you hire.
• Be sure to get a written receipt for any payment. Do not pay more than half the cost of the job upfront.
• If one estimate sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Many unethical contractors provide low-ball bids that seem attractive. But these contractors are often uninsured and may charge substantial cancellation fees.

Dealing with contractors:

• Ask contractors if they have done this type of repair work before. Also ask if they will purchase necessary permits, and if the work will be inspected. Be sure the contract spells out who pays for required permits.
• Try to get three separate bids for the job. Don't be pressured into making a quick decision. Insist on receiving a written estimate or contract. And don’t sign anything you don’t understand or contracts that have blank spaces.

• Always pay for repair work by check or credit card in order to keep a record and avoid double charges.

Fraudulent charities:

• Watch out for irreputable and phony charitable organizations. Criminals exploit survivors by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions.
• The Better Business Bureau has a list of reputable charities that have been approved by the Wise Giving Alliance (Give.Org).
• For more information about avoiding charitable giving scams, visit https://go.usa.gov/xM5Rn

To report scams, fraud and identity-theft contact:

• FEMA’s toll-free Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721;
• Local law-enforcement agencies.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

amir.nijem Thu, 09/23/2021 - 22:17

Citizenship Requirements: Survivors Applying for FEMA Assistance Citizenship Requirements: Survivors Applying for FEMA Assistance

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – FEMA is committed to helping all eligible disaster survivors recover from Tropical Storm Fred, including U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals and qualified aliens.

To qualify for assistance from FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP), you or a member of your household must be a U.S. citizen, non-U.S. citizen national or qualified alien. However, undocumented families with diverse immigration status only need one family member (including a minor child) who is a U.S. citizen, non-U.S. citizen national, or qualified alien; and has a Social Security number to apply.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Nov. 8, 2021.

A qualified alien includes the following:

• Legal permanent resident (“green card” holder)
• An asylee, refugee, or an alien whose deportation is being withheld
• Alien paroled into the U.S. for at least one year
• Alien granted conditional entry (per law in effect prior to April 1, 1980)
• Cuban/Haitian entrant
• Certain aliens subjected to extreme cruelty or who have been a victim of a severe form of human trafficking, including persons with a “T” or “U” visa.

If you’re unsure of your immigration status, talk to an immigration expert to learn if your status falls within the immigration status requirements for FEMA disaster assistance.

Qualified Minor Child

Adults who don’t qualify under one of the three categories above, including the undocumented, can apply on behalf of a minor child who does qualify and has a Social Security number. A minor child must live with the parent or guardian applying on their behalf. The parent or guardian will not have to provide any information on their own immigration status or sign any documents regarding their own status.

Voluntary Organizations

Voluntary organizations often offer help regardless of citizenship status. To find voluntary organizations in your disaster area:

• Call 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or go online at www.redcross.org/find-your-local-chapter.html.
• Visit https://www.ncvoad.org/ to learn about other voluntary organizations.

Survivors in affected counties can apply for assistance in the following ways:

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA app for smartphones. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week.

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4617 and ncdps.gov/TSFred. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. 

brianasummer.fenton Thu, 09/23/2021 - 20:24

About One month Left for Middle Tennesseans to Apply for Disaster Assistance

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – Homeowners and renters in Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys counties with uninsured damage or losses from the Aug. 21 severe storms and flooding have until Oct. 25, 2021 to apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance and to the U.S. Small Business Administration for low-interest disaster loans.

After registering with FEMA, many residents are automatically referred to SBA to apply for a low-interest disaster loan. SBA’s disaster loans are the largest source of long-term federal disaster recovery funds for residents, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations.

There is no obligation to take an SBA disaster loan or cost to apply.  Residents who are declined for an SBA loan may be referred to FEMA for grant consideration.

• Survivors who have not applied for FEMA assistance yet, can do so in any of the following ways:
  • Online through www.DisasterAssistance.gov
  • Download the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet.
  • Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). 
  • Because of the recent hurricane and other severe storms, flooding and fires across the country, wait times may be long. Please be patient. Lines are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Businesses and individuals may obtain information about low-interest disaster loans by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (1-800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or emailing DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. Loan applications can also be downloaded at sba.gov/disaster.

Those with insurance may use an SBA loan to cover the deductible and other losses not paid for by their policy. Survivors with insurance should also apply to FEMA, as they may be eligible for grants to help with disaster-related expenses their insurance doesn’t cover.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

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bree-constance… Thu, 09/23/2021 - 19:08

It’s Important to Submit an SBA Loan Application

Brooklyn, N.Y. – After you apply for disaster assistance from FEMA, you may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration. If you are referred to SBA, you should complete and submit the application.

If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept the SBA disaster loan but failure to submit the application may disqualify you from other possible FEMA assistance, such as disaster-related car repairs, essential household items and other expenses.

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors.  In planning your recovery, give yourself the widest possible set of options. Submitting the application makes it possible for homeowners and renters to be considered for additional FEMA grants.

Applicants may apply online using SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov or they may email DisasterCustomerService@SBA.gov for more information on SBA’s disaster assistance program.

Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.

Businesses may borrow up to $2 million for any combination of property damage or working capital. Homeowners may borrow up to $200,000 from SBA to repair or replace their primary residence. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $40,000 to repair or replace personal property.

Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase up to 20 percent of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements may include a sump pump, elevation, French drain or retaining wall to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by a similar disaster.

Interest rates are as low as 2.855 percent for businesses, 2 percent for nonprofit organizations and 1.563 percent for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years.  Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is November 4, 2021. The deadline to return working capital applications is June 6, 2022.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration activated its Disaster Distress helpline. This toll-free, multilingual, crisis support service is available 24/7 via telephone at 800-985-5990 for disaster survivors who are experiencing emotional distress. ASL users can contact the DDH through videophone at 800-985-5990, or by selecting the “ASL Now” option on the DDH website at www.disasterdistress.samhsa.gov.

For more online resources, as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit   www.disasterassistance.gov and click “Information.”

For referrals to agencies that support community specific need, contact your nearest 211 counts center at https://www.211nys.org/contact-us.  In NYC call 311 for outlying area, call 211.

zella.campbell Thu, 09/23/2021 - 16:23

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Roosevelt County, New Mexico

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Roosevelt County, New Mexico. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

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 participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods.

The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around Sept. 22, 2021.

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Dec. 21, 2021 for:

• The City of Portales; the Town of Elida; the Village of Floyd; and the unincorporated areas of Roosevelt County

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider 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 to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

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 at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. 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 or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Carmen.Castro Thu, 09/23/2021 - 14:09

FEMA and Ad Council Release New Latino-Focused PSAs Urging Communities to 'Prepare to Protect' Ready/Listo Campaign PSAs Launched During National Preparedness Month and Hispanic Heritage Month Aim to Engage Latino Communities and Beyond

WASHINGTON -- In recognition of National Preparedness Month and Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15), FEMA and the Ad Council released new Ready Campaign PSAs today, developed specifically for the Latino community as part of FEMA’s approach to advance accessibility and cultural competency in boosting the nation’s preparedness. The new “Prepare to Protect” PSAs in Spanish and English inform people living in communities across the country how to prepare for natural disasters. These new PSAs represent a first for FEMA with the specific focus on the Latino community and will supplement the other elements of this year’s campaign’s work to reach all audiences around the nation.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the Latino community is the fastest growing community in the nation, growing by 23% over the last decade. This growth drove FEMA’s focus for this year’s Ready Campaign to help all residents better prepare for disasters. FEMA used a data-driven approach to identify and develop culturally competent messaging tailored to resonate with the Latino community to encourage audiences to develop emergency plans. The Latino-focused ads seek to build on the Latino community’s commitment to personal planning for occasions and family milestones as a bridge to also planning for disasters. This aims to help address a gap identified in FEMA’s 2020 National Household Survey which shows 98% of households acknowledging that at least one disaster could impact where they live, yet less than half made an emergency plan or talked to others about getting prepared.

“Disasters transcend language and cultural barriers, and so should the way we talk about them. Our campaign, ’Prepare to Protect,’ taps into Latinos’ culture to plan for life’s most common and special events to bridge a connection to their desire to prepare their loved ones and protect them against disasters,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “The power of this strategy is that we can all see ourselves in this message and establish a direct connection between planning for everyday life and planning for a disaster.”

FEMA’s Ready Campaign PSAs were developed pro bono by Lopez Negrete Communications in coordination with the Ad Council. FEMA’s very own Hispanic/Latino Employee Resource Group was also tapped to help shape the ads. Throughout the month, Ready will emphasize unique aspects of preparedness, including making a communications plan, building a kit and teaching communities how to engage their families on emergency preparedness.

FEMA is putting equity front and center and is committed to accessibility and leveraging cultural competency across the agency to better communicate with all cultures. This new, evolving approach builds on the work the agency is promoting to help the people FEMA serves and its workforce understand and practice emergency preparedness.

“This one-of-a-kind campaign is a step in a new direction for our agency that is committed to putting people first and reaching communities where they are. It is our hope that more people will use these resources to prepare ahead of disasters this year,” said Administrator Criswell.

“We are proud to be part of this very important effort and to have the opportunity to craft messages specifically targeting the American Latino audience, both in-language and in-culture, taking into account the specific insights and context that are in play for our community,” stated Lopez Negrete Communications’ President/CEO, Alex López Negrete. “Ours is a strong, resilient community that has gone through its fair share of disasters and is adept at planning for everything from a complex quinceañera to a multigenerational family celebration, yet, very much lives in the ‘now.’ This campaign reminds and encourages our Hispanic audience to take those skills and apply them toward emergency preparedness for the sake of our families and loved ones.”

“When it comes to preparing for disasters, one of the most helpful things you can do is create an emergency plan and talk about it with your family,” said the Ad Council’s Chief Campaign Development Officer, Michelle Hillman. “This latest creative work reminds all of us that planning is a simple step everyone can take to help keep safe during emergencies.”

These PSAs build upon the annual month-long Ready Campaign activities that kicked off with President Biden’s proclamation for the month. The Ready Campaign continues to release other creative content to engage communities  to promote the steps to prepare for disaster in a variety of languages to help everyone have access to critical and life-safety information.

This round of creative work for the Ready Campaign is the latest in 18 years of educating communities about disaster and emergency preparedness. For more information and to get started on your emergency plan, visit ready.gov/plan or listo.gov/plan. 

amy.ashbridge Thu, 09/23/2021 - 13:47

Prepare Kids for Unexpected Emergencies

CHICAGO – As FEMA’s National Preparedness Month continues through the end of September, it’s important to remember disasters can happen any time and being prepared for them starts at home. Communicating disaster readiness actions with the children in your household is important to ensure they know what to do when the unexpected occurs.

 

“Engaging young people with disaster readiness information is key to building an overall culture of preparedness across the country,” said Scott Burgess, federal coordinating officer for the southeast Michigan disaster recovery operation. “Empowered youth can get their communities involved and better prepared for emergencies when they happen.”

 

Follow these tips to help kids be ready:

 

• Know the facts! Disasters don’t plan ahead. You can. Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area. FEMA’s video, Prepared Not Scared, shows disaster risks that could affect southeast Michigan and is a good place to start a disaster readiness conversation. Make sure to talk through what to do before, during and after each type of emergency.
• Have a plan! If a disaster happens, knowing who to call and where to meet is an important part of emergency planning for you and your family. Review your family emergency communications plan with kids at your next household meeting. Get familiar with your child’s school evacuation and reunification plans to incorporate into your preparations too.
• Build a kit! When making an emergency kit, it’s important to know what your family already has and what you still need. Sit down with your family and use this checklist to decide what else you need to make sure you and your family are prepared for any emergency.
• Get involved! Find opportunities by learning about Teen CERT online and consider applying to the FEMA Youth Preparedness Council next spring.

 

For more tips on talking to your kids about natural disasters, visit www.ready.gov/kids/prepare-your-family. You can also download “Prepare with Pedro: Disaster Preparedness Activity Book” to help teach young children how to stay safe during disasters and emergencies through fun activities such as crosswords, coloring pages, matching games, and more.

 

 

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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.

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

troy.christensen Thu, 09/23/2021 - 13:43

FEMA and the Government of Puerto Rico Establish New Agreements for the Reimbursement of Recovery Funds

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) granted a request by the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3) to eliminate what is known as the “2019 Agreement”. This agreement directed the COR3 reimbursement processes since April 2019.

Effective today, those requirements are eliminated and COR3 will have sole responsibility for ensuring that all reimbursements meet the statutory, regulatory and programmatic requirements established by FEMA. This includes documentation supporting the completion of each project and full compliance with eligibility elements. The common goal is to avoid any de-obligation of funds.

During the Island's recovery, various fiscal controls have been put in place due to the magnitude of the effects of Hurricane Maria and the historic amount of funds earmarked for the island. From the beginning, a manual disbursement process was implemented that required a 100 percent review of documentation before applicants for FEMA's Public Assistance program could receive the allocated money. This process ended in April 2019 when the 2019 Agreement came into effect, with COR3 assuming more direct responsibility for the reimbursement process. Now, through this new decision, the restrictions of the 2019 Agreement are released.

“Puerto Rico's recovery is unprecedented. The number of projects approved so far represent a historic investment in the island of over $25 billion. This joint determination highlights our commitment to the people of Puerto Rico and the strong sense of collaboration that exists,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico, José G. Baquero.

According to the Governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro R. Pierluisi, “this demonstrates the confidence and credibility that this government has earned. With this increased flexibility, Puerto Rico is being treated equally alongside the rest of the states. I appreciate the work of COR3’s Executive Director, Manuel Laboy, as well as the efforts of the rest of the government team. We will continue to work on other strategies to move forward in the rebuilding of our island.” 

To ensure that federal funds are used for the purposes established between FEMA and the Government of Puerto Rico, the federal agency will continue to monitor samplings of transactions after funds are obligated. This is part of FEMA's fiscal responsibility to ensure that the federal investment on the island meets all parameters required by law. Likewise, the FEMA team will continue to provide support to COR3 to expedite the reimbursement process.

Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of COR3, said that “this allows COR3 to streamline and make its disbursement processes more flexible as long as it continues to comply with the federal provisions that apply to us. This is a great step forward and we thank the federal agencies for trusting this administration.”

To date, FEMA has allocated funds for over 8,500 projects as a result of Hurricane María. Of these, more than 6,600 are permanent work projects. To date, more than $25 billion in FEMA funds move the island’s recovery forward.

FEMA works with COR3 through the agency's Public Assistance program to obligate recovery funds to private nonprofit organizations, municipalities and Puerto Rico government agencies.

To access more information on the recovery of Puerto Rico from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

manuel.deleon Wed, 09/22/2021 - 22:57

Assistance Available for Eligible Wildfire Survivors in Tehama and Trinity Counties

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Federal disaster assistance is now available for wildfire survivors with uninsured and underinsured damage to their primary residence in Tehama and Trinity counties.

Assistance may include funds for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to support the repair or replacement of owner-occupied homes that serve as the household’s primary residence, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other miscellaneous items.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property, businesses and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. The easiest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors may also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, give FEMA the number for that service.

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following information prior to registration: Social Security number; address of the damaged primary residence; insurance coverage information; current telephone number and mailing address; and bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet your basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

For more information about California’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4610 and Cal OES’ wildfirerecovery.caloes.ca.gov. The registration deadline is Oct. 25, 2021.

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All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD).

FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during and after disasters.

robert.barker Wed, 09/22/2021 - 17:40

FEMA Inspectors Visit Homes in Declared California Counties

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – As residents impacted by wildfires in Lassen, Plumas, Nevada, Placer, Tehama and Trinity counties start their recovery, it’s important they stay informed on what to expect next.

If you applied to FEMA and said you are unable to live in your home due to disaster damage, FEMA may contact you to arrange a home inspection, with social distancing, to view exterior damage.

For initial inspections, FEMA inspectors contact applicants to meet at the address where the damage was reported. During the meeting, inspectors follow social distancing guidelines. The inspector validates damage from the exterior of the home and from questioning the applicant about their damage.  The inspector will not enter the home.

The Inspector will also record damage to furnishings and major appliances such as—washer, dryer, refrigerator—and other serious needs such as clothing lost or damaged in the disaster. Inspectors use specialized software so that every applicant gets the same inspection. They record losses but do not determine how much assistance you may qualify for.

Things you need when an inspector arrives:

• You or co-applicant must be present.
• You will need to show a photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Proof of occupancy such as utility bill, driver’s license, bank statement, medical providers bill in the name of the resident.
• Owners need to present evidence of ownership such as insurance in the owner’s name, title, mortgage receipts.
• Renters need to present proof of rental such as rent receipts, lease agreement, utility bill in name of renter, landlord’s name, and phone number.

FEMA representatives and contractors will have a laminated badge, and never charge a fee to inspect your property. FEMA Inspectors may call or visit your home to perform a FEMA housing inspection. You should request to view their badge before proceeding or providing information. To protect your privacy and identity, a FEMA inspector will request to view a valid photo ID and verify your information. Be aware that Inspectors may call or text from out of area phone numbers. If you doubt a FEMA representative is legitimate, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to report the incident.

You can find more information about the FEMA inspection process by visiting fema.gov/what-happens-inspection.

A FEMA determination letter, sent by regular mail or email typically within 10 days after the inspection, will include the eligibility decision and an explanation for it. For those who are eligible for assistance, the letter states the dollar amount of the grant and how the money must be used. If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, the letter explains how to appeal the decision.

It is important to read the determination letter carefully. FEMA may request additional information or documentation from an applicant—such as an insurance settlement decision.

Owners and renters whose homes are insured for damage need to submit documentation to FEMA to show their coverage is not enough to meet their disaster-related needs. You can also submit insurance documentation to FEMA if you have run out of the Additional Living Expenses your insurance company provided. FEMA cannot pay for damage covered by insurance or duplicate benefits from another source.

If you need to request an accommodation or have additional questions, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, give FEMA the number for that service.

###

All FEMA disaster assistance will be provided without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, limited English proficiency, economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD).

FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during and after disasters.

robert.barker Wed, 09/22/2021 - 17:38

FEMA DSA Teams Helping New Jersey Hurricane Ida Survivors

Trenton, NJ – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are assisting survivors in New Jersey counties affected by Hurricane Ida. These teams help survivors register for federal assistance, identify potential needs and make connections with local, state, federal and voluntary agencies with resources to assist them.

The DSA teams provide survivors a means to access and apply for disaster assistance.

They are operating at fixed locations such as community centers, libraries, covered parking lots, etc. The teams are following CDC safety guidelines for COVID-19 including social distancing and use of protective equipment. Locations are determined by local officials and near the most heavily impacted areas.

DSA helps survivors in different ways:

• Conduct outreach in the 12 designated counties of Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union and Warren.
• Assist survivors to register for FEMA assistance.
• Check the status of an application already in the system and can make minor changes to applications.
• Make callouts to faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, private sector (businesses) and public libraries that may have the capability to distribute disaster-related information to survivors in the impacted counties.
• Identify organizations providing disaster-related services and/or resources to the general public for immediate and long-term recovery.
• Gather situational awareness about impacts to communities.
• Provide flyers in English, Spanish and nine other languages explaining how to apply for disaster assistance.
• Provide civil rights and disability integration assistance information to ensure equal access.

Information provided by the teams are tailored to the individual survivor’s needs and may include information on making temporary repairs to a disaster-damaged house, pay for another short-term place to live while permanent repairs are made and/or help with serious, disaster-related needs not covered by other programs.  

DSA teams never require survivors to provide personal information. DSA team members can easily be identified by their federal photo identifications and FEMA clothing. New Jersey residents are reminded to ask for official photo identification before sharing personal information.

FEMA employees do not solicit or accept money from disaster survivors. FEMA staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help with registration.

Survivors do not need to contact a DSA team member to register with FEMA. Residents who sustained damage or losses caused by Hurricane Ida can register with FEMA in the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use a cell phone to register through http://m.FEMA.gov; click “Apply Online for FEMA Assistance,” and you will be directed to DisasterAssistance.gov.

• If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines are currently operating 24 hours per day, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

By registering with FEMA, survivors may qualify for federal grants to pay for essential home repair or replacement or to rent a temporary home. In addition, help may be available to pay for other disaster-related needs, such as medical, dental, transportation and funeral expenses, moving and storage fees, personal property loss and childcare, not covered by insurance.

Registering with FEMA is also the first step in qualifying for help from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Low-interest disaster loans from SBA are available to businesses of all sizes (including landlords), homeowners, renters and private nonprofit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance. Low-interest disaster loans help fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged real estate and personal property.

amir.nijem Wed, 09/22/2021 - 14:36

FEMA Explains Processes for Island’s Power Grid Projects

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working closely with the Government of Puerto Rico, the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), the Puerto Rico Energy Bureau (PREB) and the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) to move forward with projects to transform the island’s electrical system. PREPA has an obligation of over $9.4 billion for these efforts, which represents the largest allocation of funds in FEMA’s history.

Currently, there are 77 PREPA projects reflected in the portal used by FEMA to formulate projects and perform all related functions prior to the approval of specific projects. At the moment, PREPA is working on the designs and pre-designs to repair substations, transmission lines and PREPA buildings throughout the island. In order for these projects to move to the FEMA evaluation phase, however, PREPA must first provide scopes of work that further detail how the work will be performed.

Regarding the next steps once the scopes of work are received, FEMA’s Director of External Affairs in Puerto Rico, Juan Andrés Muñoz Torres, explained that “from here, the Agency evaluates so that that all federal environmental and historic preservation laws are enforced.”

“In addition, FEMA identifies possible opportunities to prevent similar damage in the future through our Hazard Mitigation Grant Program,” he added, while emphasizing that the Agency’s goal is to help these projects become tangible construction for the benefit of all Puerto Ricans.

In 2020, FEMA announced the FEMA Accelerated Awards Strategy (FAASt), which allows critical infrastructure projects to be grouped together in order to expedite energy grid work in Puerto Rico. “This initiative is innovative and allows us to evaluate projects along the way, forging new paths in the island's unprecedented recovery.”

Likewise, all projects that PREPA submits to FEMA must have the approval of PREB, which is the entity in charge of regulating and supervising the island’s energy industry. The first project approvals by PREB occurred this past June. 

To date, PREPA has not requested any reimbursement of funds to COR3 for incurred costs related to permanent work.

To access more information on the recovery of Puerto Rico from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 09/22/2021 - 11:10

More than $9.3 Million in Federal Disaster Assistance Approved for the Severe Storms and Flooding in Middle Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – One month after the federal disaster declaration for the Aug. 21 severe storms and flooding in Middle Tennessee, more than $9.3 million in federal funds has been provided directly to Tennesseans to aid in their recovery.

Help for survivors in the designated counties of Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys includes grants from FEMA and low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Policyholders in the National Flood Insurance Program have also been receiving payouts for their claims. As of Sept. 20, more than 2,200 Tennessee households have contacted FEMA for help.

• As of Sept. 20, Tennesseans received more than $9.3 million through funding from FEMA and SBA.
  • Of that total, more than $3.7 million in FEMA individual assistance has gone to homeowners and renters whose insurance, or other forms of disaster assistance received, could not meet their disaster-caused needs. More than $1.2 million has been provided to residents for Other Needs Assistance, which includes grants to replace damaged personal property as well as expenses for transportation, medical and other disaster-related needs.
  • Homeowners, renters and businesses have been approved over $4.4 million in low-interest disaster loans from SBA to repair, rebuild and replace damaged property and contents. SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters.
• As of Sept. 20, NFIP policyholders received more than $5.1 million in more than 46 claims to repair and rebuild flood-damaged property.
• More than 1,900 survivors visited three Multi-Agency Resource Centers (MARCs). The first center in Waverly (Humphreys County) opened Aug. 28, less than one week after the presidential disaster declaration, and remains open.
• Approximately 1,200 FEMA housing inspections have been completed.
• FEMA disaster survivor assistance specialists canvassed the affected communities and interacted with more than 1,100 survivors to encourage them to register for help, while providing them with recovery information and listening to their concerns.
• The deadline for survivors to apply for federal aid is Oct. 25, 2021. Survivors can apply for FEMA Assistance in any of the following ways:
  • Online through DisasterAssistance.gov
  • Download the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet.
  • Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). 
  • Because of the recent hurricane and other severe storms, flooding and fires across the country, wait times may be long. Please be patient. Lines are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Assistance to local, county and state governments:

Local, county and state government infrastructure and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, in Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys counties are eligible for Public Assistance. This includes debris removal, emergency protective measures taken to eliminate or lessen immediate threats to lives, public health or safety. Public Assistance also includes permanent repair or replacement of public infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, as well as public facilities, such government buildings, schools and parks.

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bree-constance… Tue, 09/21/2021 - 21:06

FEMA Expands Outreach in Western North Carolina FEMA Expands Outreach in Western North Carolina

ASHEVILLE, N.C. – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are going door-to-door in Buncombe, Haywood and Transylvania counties and two mobile registration centers will continue operating in Haywood County this week.

FEMA mobile units, which began operation Sept. 18, are at these locations from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday, Sept. 24:

• East Fork Baptist Church -- 13175 Cruso Rd, Canton, NC 28716 
• Canton Recreation Park -- 77 Penland St., Canton, NC 28716 

FEMA personnel at the centers can help residents in Buncombe, Haywood and Transylvania counties who were impacted by Tropical Storm Fred apply for federal assistance. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) also will have personnel at the sites to answer questions and refer applicants to the two Business Recovery Centers SBA is operating:

• Haywood Community College Regional High-Tech Center, 112 Industrial Park Dr., Room 3021, Waynesville, N.C. 28786. Hours are Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., closed Saturday and Sunday.
• Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, 1465 Sand Hill Rd., Suite 1054, Candler, NC 28715. Hours are Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–2 p.m., closed: Sunday.

The DSA teams are going door to door to help residents apply for FEMA assistance, offer referrals to other resources, check the status of an existing application and answer questions about disaster assistance.

DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. FEMA personnel never ask for money.

There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA app, or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Multilingual lines are open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

The deadline for applications is Nov. 8, 2021.

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit fema.gov/disaster/4617 and ncdps.gov/TSFred. Follow us on Twitter: @NCEmergency and @FEMARegion4.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. 

brianasummer.fenton Tue, 09/21/2021 - 20:32

DRC Open in Essex and Morris Counties

Trenton, NJ – Disaster Recovery Centers opened today in Essex and Morris counties to help residents in New Jersey affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.  

Representatives from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available at the centers to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about written correspondence and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

The DRCs are located at:

• Essex County: Kmart – Co-located with a Vaccination Center, 235 Prospect Avenue #9413, West Orange, NJ 07052
  • • Open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday ET;  8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and Closed Sundays
• Morris County: Morris Plains Community Center, 51 Jim Fear Dr., Morris Plains, NJ 07950
  • • Open 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET. Monday through Thursday; Closed: Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Individuals in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union, and Warren counties are eligible to apply for disaster assistance.

Survivors can ask questions or seek further information in person at the DRC, in addition to online or by phone. Survivors can visit any of the DRC locations and find their closest location through the FEMA App.  To download the FEMA App please visit the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

Additional centers are open in the following locations:

• Hudson County: Secaucus Public Library and Business Resource Center, 1379 Paterson Plank Rd., Secaucus 07094
  • Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday
• Hunterdon County: Union Fire Company #1, 230 N. Main St., Lambertville 08530
  • • Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• Bergen County: Ciarco Learning Center, 355 Main St., Hackensack 07652
  • • Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Saturday; Closed Sundays
• Mercer County: Hollowbrook Community Center, 320 Hollowbrook Drive, Trenton 08638
  • • Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• Middlesex County: Middlesex Fire Academy, 1001 Fire Academy Drive, Cafeteria B, Sayreville 08872
  • • Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• Passaic County: Civic Center, 19 Warren St., Little Falls 07424
  • Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• Gloucester County: Mullica Hill Library, 389 Wolfert Station Road, Mullica Hill 08062
  • Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.to 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 – 5 p.m.
• Somerset County: North End Volunteer Fire Company #3, 169 North 8th Ave., Manville 08835
  • Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• Union County: Elizabeth O’Donnell Dempsey Senior Community Center, 618 Salem Ave., Elizabeth 07208
  • Open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

FEMA and NJOEM are committed to opening DRCs in each of the designated counties. These additional centers will be opening soon to support survivors.

If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate are currently operating 24 hours per day, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your Social Security number, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging and home repairs along with other programs to assist families recover from the effects of the event.

amir.nijem Mon, 09/20/2021 - 21:57

Read Your Determination Letter Carefully

TRENTON. N.J. – Hurricane Ida survivors who have registered with FEMA and applied for disaster assistance might have or will receive a letter explaining the current status of their application.  FEMA also communicates with applicants through electronic notification via email, online through disasterassistance.gov/, or letters sent through the U.S. Postal Service.

It is strongly encouraged that survivors read that letter very carefully.  This letter informs the types of assistance FEMA has determined you are eligible or ineligible to receive, the amounts of assistance FEMA is providing for each eligible need, the reasons an applicant is ineligible for the applicable types of assistance, an explanation of the appeals process, and other key information regarding disaster assistance, including proper use of disaster assistance funds..

If FEMA requires more information to process an applicant’s request, an applicant may receive a letter requesting additional information.  For example:

• Utility bills to prove the damaged property was the primary residence at the time of the disaster;
• Insurance paperwork that is still pending, which will determine other programs the survivor will be eligible for with FEMA;
• A pay stub or a government-issued picture ID that has the damaged property listed;
• Proof of home ownership like copies of mortgage payments or a house deed to prove ownership;
• A renter’s lease to prove occupancy; or
• The completed U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan application.

 

If the survivor has complied with all of FEMA’s requests and is still deemed ineligible but disagrees, you may appeal the decision. FEMA reviews applicant’s written appeals and documentation received supporting the appeal. Appeals may relate to eligibility, the amount or type of help provided, a late application, a request to return money, or continuing help. You must appeal within 60 days of the date on your eligibility notification letter.

The applicant’s appeal letter must explain the reason(s) for appeal (why you think the decision about the amount or type of assistance is not correct) and must be signed by the applicant or person who the applicant authorizes to act on their behalf.   The appeal submission should also include the following information:

• Applicant’s full name
• Applicant’s FEMA Application Number and Disaster Number
• Address of the applicant’s pre-disaster primary residence
• Applicant’s current phone number and address

Be sure to date and sign the letter. Include your nine-digit FEMA registration number on each page.

Mail the letter to FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055, or fax the letter to 1-800-827-8112.

Appeal letters and supporting documentation also can be uploaded to your account on DisasterAssistance.gov.

For questions about the letter or the entire appeal process, applicants should call 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Operators are currently on duty seven days a week, twenty-four (24) hours a day

For questions about eligibility letters, survivors can visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available.

If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines are currently operating twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your Social Security number, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

As soon as it is safe to do so, start cleaning up. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Businesses and residents can apply online at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. For questions and assistance completing an application, call 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. SBA will answer specific questions about how a disaster loan may help each survivor recover from the disaster damage.

amir.nijem Mon, 09/20/2021 - 21:41

FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance State-by-State Breakdown

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided over $1.1 billion to nearly 170,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.

Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.

“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the assistance process.

Please find state-specific information below:

State/Territory

Applications

Amount Approved

Number of Awards

ALABAMA

6,620

$26,045,678

3,764

ALASKA

161

$443,406

78

AMERICAN SAMOA

Less than 10

$9,000

Less than 10

ARIZONA

4,784

$14,541,326

2,817

ARKANSAS

3,037

$11,100,156

1,739

CALIFORNIA

28,298

$111,811,803

17,120

COLORADO

2,193

$7,510,292

1,328

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS

Less than 10

$4,344

Less than 10

CONNECTICUT

3,245

$15,408,928

2,215

DELAWARE

841

$3,126,506

493

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

528

$1,993,231

291

FLORIDA

18,561

$53,104,247

9,351

GEORGIA

10,929

$43,986,389

6,326

GUAM

16

$51,162

Less than 10

HAWAII

290

$877,689

151

IDAHO

624

$1,900,595

331

ILLINOIS

11,495

$50,263,650

7,332

INDIANA

4,883

$22,149,118

3,151

IOWA

2,377

$11,653,863

1,618

KANSAS

2,328

$9,753,715

1,485

KENTUCKY

3,845

$17,183,587

2,393

LOUISIANA

5,338

$21,650,600

3,141

MAINE

376

$1,149,257

210

MARYLAND

5,345

$22,591,800

3,343

MASSACHUSETTS

5,446

$24,944,102

3,575

MICHIGAN

9,218

$36,678,218

5,993

MINNESOTA

2,666

$12,696,266

1,836

MISSISSIPPI

4,639

$18,061,177

2,657

MISSOURI

5,398

$20,539,554

3,246

MONTANA

520

$1,350,429

259

NEBRASKA

1,188

$5,531,638

776

NEVADA

2,485

$7,284,522

1,309

NEW HAMPSHIRE

651

$2,531,164

419

NEW JERSEY

11,350

$49,950,976

7,178

NEW MEXICO

1,538

$4,198,605

811

NEW YORK

24,743

$103,264,737

14,863

NORTH CAROLINA

8,562

$34,550,433

5,170

NORTH DAKOTA

650

$3,082,539

410

OHIO

9,361

$41,148,310

6,348

OKLAHOMA

4,001

$16,092,890

2,503

OREGON

919

$2,586,614

487

PENNSYLVANIA

12,266

$54,942,173

8,322

PUERTO RICO

1,278

$2,248,792

620

RHODE ISLAND

1,109

$4,442,750

641

SOUTH CAROLINA

5,905

$24,982,875

3,584

SOUTH DAKOTA

689

$3,327,994

451

TENNESSEE

7,132

$30,424,332

4,395

TEXAS

25,710

$101,775,023

15,508

U, S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

31

$89,994

15

UTAH

1,115

$4,842,402

687

VERMONT

134

$565,055

94

VIRGINIA

6,011

$25,657,613

3,828

WASHINGTON

1,938

$5,865,402

1,056

WEST VIRGINIA

1,486

$5,715,070

837

WISCONSIN

4,274

$18,848,955

2,865

WYOMING

280

$1,026,862

178

 

* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. EDT Monday, Sept. 20, 2021.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them.

Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/20/2021 - 18:52