June 2 ,2009

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- In the weeks following the severe May storms, West Virginians may have questions about the many disaster assistance programs that can help them rebuild their lives.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) programs include grants to help pay for temporary housing, home repairs and other expenses not covered by insurance. Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may also be available to cover residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance.

"Some people may have put off calling FEMA for help because they have a lot of questions, but there are answers," said Jimmy Gianato, state coordinating officer with the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about FEMA's disaster aid programs:

Are only low-income residents qualified for disaster assistance?
No. Federal aid programs are available to any eligible applicant regardless of income.

I have insurance. Should I still register with FEMA?
Yes. Insurance may not cover all your needs. FEMA's programs may be able to help make up the difference.

Do I have to wait for my insurance adjuster before I apply for assistance?
No. You can apply for assistance before the insurance adjuster visits your property.

Can I apply for a loan from the SBA even if I'm not a business owner?
Yes. Renters and homeowners may be eligible for low-interest disaster loans based on the type and extent of uninsured or underinsured losses. For information on SBA low-interest loans, residents and business owners in the designated counties should call 800-659-2955 or  TTY 800-877-8339 for those with speech or hearing impairments.  You may also visit the SBA Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.  

I don't want a loan. Do I still need to fill out the SBA application?
Yes. You must complete and return the application. The information you provide helps FEMA determine if you qualify for other forms of assistance. The Other Needs Assistance Program helps meet serious, disaster-related needs for those who have been denied an SBA loan. If you are offered a loan you do not have to accept it.

Can I get help with repairs to my damaged vacation home?
No.  FEMA only provides funds to repair your primary residence.

I rent an apartment. Can I get help to replace my damaged property?
Yes. Renters may be eligible for assistance with temporary housing needs if they are not able to live in their home. You may also qualify for SBA loans or for other assistance to help with personal property, transportation and/or other losses.

I already repaired my home. Is it too late to apply?
No. You should still apply. If you are a homeowner, you may be reimbursed for essential repairs if they are not covered by insurance. Keep your receipts and show them to the inspector.

Do I need to make an appointment to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)?   
No. After you have registered with FEMA, you are encouraged to visit a DRC for additional information or help. No appointment is necessary. SBA officials are also available to assist with loan applications. You'll also find information about ways to reduce damage in future weather events. 

If you have not applied for FEMA assistance, homeowners, renters, and business of all sizes who suffered disaster-related damages should apply now. You can register online at www.disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362), or TTY 800-462-7585 for those with speech or hearing impairments, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily.

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.

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