LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Wonder why FEMA turned you down for disaster assistance?
Appealing a FEMA determination on a disaster assistance application is easy, but before acting, read your decision letter carefully and ask questions.
Disaster survivors may believe FEMA made an incorrect decision or question the type of help FEMA provided. Sometimes, FEMA can’t move forward on an application because key information is missing, such as proof of ownership or contractor’s estimate for repairs not covered.
Applicants with insurance may receive an initial denial, but reconnecting with FEMA after insurance settles may change the picture. Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 can clarify matters.
To submit an appeal, survivors should explain specifically and in writing why they disagree with the FEMA decision. Appeal the decision within 60 days of the date on the FEMA decision letter.
The appeal letter should include the applicant’s full name, date and place of birth, address and supporting documentation. Have it notarized and include a copy of a state-issued identification card or the following statement: “I hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.”
Sign the letter, date it and mail to:
FEMA
National Processing Service Center
P.O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
Letters may also be faxed to 800-827-8112 with a cover sheet marked: Attention – FEMA. Appeals may also be uploaded to the applicant’s account on DisasterAssistance.gov.
Federal assistance is available to eligible individuals and households in16 Arkansas Counties: Benton, Boone, Carroll, Clay, Faulkner, Fulton, Jackson, Lawrence, Prairie, Pulaski, Randolph, Saline, Washington, White, Woodruff and Yell. Damage or loss from the severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding must have occurred between April 26 and May 19.
To register for FEMA disaster assistance:
Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. If you use 711 or VRS (Video Relay Service) or require accommodations while visiting a center, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free numbers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish);Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), also available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.FEMA’s Individual Assistance program is designed to help survivors with immediate essential needs and to help displaced survivors find a safe, functional place to live temporarily until they can return home. Many survivors may have additional needs beyond what can be provided by FEMA. The agency works closely with state, federal, faith-based and voluntary agencies which may be able to help.
For updates on the Arkansas response and recovery, follow the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (@AR_Emergencies) on Twitter and Facebook and adem.arkansas.gov. Additional information is available at fema.gov/disaster/4318.
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FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
