June 3, 2009

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- West Virginia senior citizens can feel comfortable knowing that applying for, or receiving disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will not cause them to lose Social Security benefits.

"A federal grant does not add to a senior's taxable income, as long as the grant is given as assistance to recover from a disaster," said State Coordinating Officer Jimmy Gianato of the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. "This means that senior citizens will not have to sacrifice any part of their Social Security benefits."

Additionally, disaster grants won't affect income levels, causing a senior citizen to become ineligible for Medicaid, welfare assistance, food stamps or Aid to Families with Dependent Children. Seniors should also know that state/federal grants do not have to be repaid.

"We want seniors to register with FEMA so we can get them the help they need as soon as possible," said Federal Coordinating Officer Edward H. Smith.

After registration, seniors can visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to get answers to any questions they may have. Centers are open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Call the FEMA Helpline at the number below for DRC locations.

Disaster survivors may apply for assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling this toll-free number, 800-621-FEMA (3362), 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., daily. Those with speech or hearing impairments may call TTY 800-462-7585.

FEMA leads and supports the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation, to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the nation from all hazards including natural disasters, acts of terrorism and other man-made disasters.

###