Survivors have the right to appeal any FEMA decision or award amount.
How do I appeal?
You can appeal any FEMA decision or award amount by sending documents that show you qualify and need more help, like estimates for repairs, receipts, bills, etc. Each decision letter you receive from FEMA explains types of documents that may help you appeal your FEMA’s decision or award amount for that type of assistance.
Supporting documents may include:
- Receipts
- Bills
- Repair estimates
- Property titles or deeds
- Any other information that may support the reasons for the appeal.
Do I have to send any other documents?
No, but you can send additional information to help explain why you are appealing. Sending additional information isn’t required, but it can help FEMA consider your appeal. If you want to send additional information, you can:
- Send a signed and completed Appeal Request Form. A copy of this form is included in your FEMA decision letter.
- Send a signed, written appeal letter.
Appeals must be submitted within 60 days of the date on the FEMA decision letter.
What should I include on documents I send to FEMA?
All documents you send to FEMA as part of your appeal should include your:
- Full name
- Current phone number and address
- Disaster Number and FEMA Application Number written on all pages and
- Address of the disaster-damaged home.
Receipts, bills, and estimates must include the business name and contact information to help FEMA confirm the information.
Can someone appeal for me?
Yes. If you send a written explanation for the appeal that is written by someone other than you, it must include their signature. FEMA will need your written permission to share information about your application. You can do this by completing an Authorization for the Release of Information Under the Privacy Act form and sending it to FEMA.
How can I send documents?
- Upload to your disaster assistance account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
Mail to:
FEMA,
P.O. Box 10055,
Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.
- Fax to 1-800-827-8112.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center