MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Sometimes disaster survivors are told that they are not eligible for FEMA assistance. For those who disagree with the finding, there is a way to have FEMA revisit the case.
First, the applicant should read the determination letter carefully. Many times the decision was based on a lack of complete information that FEMA asked for. Perhaps FEMA needs more documentation.
If that does not resolve the problem, everyone has a right of appeal.
To appeal, 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 time the FEMA 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 the nine-digit FEMA application number and the disaster code (DR-4419-AL), 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:
- 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 more clarification or if an applicant believes an error has been made, he should contact FEMA at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
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FEMA’s mission: 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). For TTY call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s temporary housing assistance and grants for public transportation expenses, medical and dental expenses, and funeral and burial expenses do not require individuals to apply for an SBA loan. However, applicants who receive SBA loan applications must submit them to SBA to be eligible for assistance that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.