DES MOINES, Iowa – Many residents of Louisa and Scott counties who sustained damage during the recent flooding realize that state and federal disaster assistance is only a phone call away. Many of those individuals, however, are unaware of what happens after they register with FEMA.
FEMA registration is quick and easy. There are multiple ways to register:
- Go online towww.disasterassistance.gov/.
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The Helpline hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CDT seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available.
- Use a smartphone to download the FEMA app at www.fema.gov/mobile-app and then follow the instructions to register.
Applicants with disaster losses who call the toll-free line are assigned a registration identification number for future reference in identifying their case. In most cases, a FEMA-contracted inspector will call the applicant to make an appointment to visit the damaged property and assess the loss.
The following are points to remember during inspections:
- Do not rely on clothing insignias alone for identification. All inspectors wear and should display a current photo identification badge. It’s OK to ask to see this ID.
- Applicants will be asked for some proof of occupancy and owners must show proof of ownership.
- Inspectors do not determine any dollar amounts. They only inspect, and document reported damage.
- Inspectors do not carry money, nor do they ask for money.
After registering for disaster assistance, you may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). In times of disasters, the SBA offers low-interest loans for businesses, homeowners and renters. There’s no obligation to accept a loan, but you may miss out on the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds if you don’t apply.
Information about how to apply for low-interest SBA loans for businesses and residents is available online at SBA.gov/disaster. You may also call 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.