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Beware of Scammers Pretending to be Disaster Workers
Beware of Scammers Pretending to be Disaster Workers

Beware of Scammers Pretending to be Disaster Workers

ATLANTA– Survivors should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud, scams or identity theft. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.

Survivors should keep the following information in mind while FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other officials are on the ground.

  • Don’t trust anyone who asks for money. Federal and local disaster workers do not ask for or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
  • Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for a large cash deposit or other payments in full.

 

  • Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. The person might ask for your Social Security number and income or banking information. FEMA representatives will have a laminated badge and your FEMA application number.

 

  • Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/application number. Legitimate FEMA housing inspectors will NOT ask for this information.

 

  • Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information.

 

Fraudulent building contractors

  • Use licensed or verified local contractors with reliable references.

 

 

  • Don’t pay more than half the costs of repairs in advance.

 

  • Demand that contractors detail the job you expect them to do and ask them to give you a written estimate.

 

Report the Scam. Reporting helps protect others. Based on the type of scam you may see, contact the appropriate agency.

  • If you believe you or a loved one are the victim of a scam or identity theft, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the North Carolina Department of Justice online at ncdoj.gov/file-a-complaint/ or toll-free by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM .
  • If you suspect fraudulent activity involving FEMA, you can report it to the FEMA Fraud Branch at: Email:StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, Fax: (202) 212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005 Washington, DC 20472-3005
  • If someone is using your personal information to open new accounts, make a purchase or get a tax refund, report it at IdentityTheft.gov.

 

  • You can file a complaint with the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors if you have been scammed or have a dispute with a business regarding a transaction.

 

  • Reporting to the Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker can help others become aware of scams in your local area.

For more information on North Carolina’s disaster recovery, visit www.ncdps.gov/ and www.fema.gov/disaster/4617. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

brianasummer.fentonMon, 09/13/2021 - 20:16
North Carolina Survivors Affected by Tropical Storm Fred Can Apply for FEMA Assistance
North Carolina Survivors Affected by Tropical Storm Fred Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Residents of Buncombe, Haywood, and Transylvania counties who were affected by the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred from Aug. 16 – 18, 2021, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to apply. The toll-free telephone lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

You can also apply by smartphone or tablet using the FEMA App, or at www.disasterassistance.gov. When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

  • A current phone number where you can be contacted.
  • Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
  • Your Social Security number.
  • A general list of damage and losses.
  • Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
  • If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

If you have homeowners, renter’s or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, along with other programs to assist those recovering from the flooding.

For more information about Tropical Storm Fred recovery in North Carolina, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4617. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion4.

neily.chapmanFri, 09/10/2021 - 20:09
Panama City, FL Strengthens Critical Infrastructure for Future Disasters
Panama City, FL Strengthens Critical Infrastructure for Future Disasters

PENSACOLA, Fla – FEMA has approved grants of more than $4.7 million for two hazard mitigation projects for the city of Panama City to reduce its risk of critical facility failure during future disasters. Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by the city after Hurricane Michael in 2018.

Millville Wastewater Treatment Plant: $2,653,956 for the purchase and installation of twin permanent generators to support the critical operations of the plant. They will be connected to the main electrical transfer system by a switchgear and an underground duct bank, which provide a protected pathway for electrical transmission and allow the city to provide continued service to the community during future power outages.

Sanitary Sewer Lift Stations: $2,052,265 for Phase One in a proposed project to provide flood protection and improvements to 13 sanitary sewer lift stations within the city, including surveying, engineering, design, plan preparation, permitting and the bidding for Phase Two approval. If approved, the project proposes different mitigation actions depending on the needs and assessment of each of the 13 sites to include relocation, elevation or strengthening against storm surge and wave-action hazards.

The HMGP provides funding to help communities eliminate or reduce disaster-related damage. Following a major disaster, a percentage of a state’s total federal recovery grants is calculated to help develop more resilient communities. Florida has an Enhanced Hazard Mitigation Plan that allows more funding to be available for post-disaster resilience projects. States with the enhanced plan receive HMGP funds based on 20% of their total estimated eligible federal disaster assistance.

Kimberly.KippThu, 09/09/2021 - 19:32
Renters May Apply for FEMA Assistance
Renters May Apply for FEMA Assistance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Renters in Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys counties whose property was damaged by the severe storm and flooding on Aug. 21, 2021 may apply for federal disaster assistance.

FEMA Individual Assistance may be available to eligible renters, including students, as well as homeowners. Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to register. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. You may also register via the FEMA app by downloading it to a smartphone or tablet, or at www.disasterassistance.gov.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

  • A current phone number where you can be contacted
  • Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
  • Your Social Security number, if available
  • A general list of damage and losses
  • If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

If you have renter’s insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Take photos to document losses and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Renters may also qualify for a grant under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for essential personal property and other disaster-related expenses. These may include:

  • Replacement or repair of necessary personal property, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, textbooks or school supplies.
  • Replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment required by the self-employed.
  • Primary vehicles.
  • Medical and dental bills.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans to help Tennessee businesses, homeowners and renters repair or replace disaster-damaged personal property, contents, tools of the trade, and vehicles.

For additional information about SBA disaster loans, the loan application process, or for help completing the SBA application, visit SBA’s secure website at www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

bree-constance…Thu, 09/09/2021 - 16:50
FEMA Approves Additional $1.9 Million in Hurricane Michael Recovery Expenses
FEMA Approves Additional $1.9 Million in Hurricane Michael Recovery Expenses

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved an additional $1,945,625 for the state of Florida to reimburse Bay District Schools for management costs following Hurricane Michael in 2018.

Funding from FEMA's Public Assistance program will provide reimbursement for indirect management costs, direct administrative costs and other expenses associated with the administration of eligible projects. As a result of Hurricane Michael, Bay District Schools has identified a total of 153 eligible projects with FEMA.

This additional reimbursement brings FEMA's total grants for the school district's Hurricane Michael-related recovery to more than $106.8 million.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.

Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

Kimberly.KippThu, 09/09/2021 - 14:44
Baptist Health Care Corporation Approved for $1 Million for Emergency Protective Measures
Baptist Health Care Corporation Approved for $1 Million for Emergency Protective Measures

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved $1,039,417 for the state of Florida to reimburse the Baptist Health Care Corporation for the emergency protective measures it utilized in response to Hurricane Sally.

Funding from FEMA's Public Assistance program will be used to reimburse the Corporation for its efforts to reduce the imminent threat to lives, public health and safety by providing water damage remediation and clean-up of damages at eight of its facilities from Sept. 14 through Sept. 28, 2020.  

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.

Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

Kimberly.KippThu, 09/09/2021 - 13:06
A “no” can become a “yes” with a successful FEMA appeal
A “no” can become a “yes” with a successful FEMA appeal

NASHVILE, Tenn.— The record-breaking rainfall came on so fast and furious Aug. 21, deadly flash flooding was unavoidable for many. People in Dickson, Hickman, Houston, and Humphreys counties are now looking for answers. FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides eligible survivors with financial assistance and direct services.  Hundreds of middle Tennessee residents have already filed an application. Some, however, may receive a letter stating their claim is ineligible for payment. If you receive that letter, you may be able to change the outcome. Many times, it’s a simple fix. An application is often denied because additional information is needed.

Here are some tips to consider when appealing a FEMA ineligible determination.

Tip 1: Know your deadline.

You have 60 days from the date of your FEMA determination letter to appeal. Circle the deadline on your calendar or write yourself a note to keep the date in the forefront. Once FEMA reviews your letter, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more documentation.

Tip 2: Understand why FEMA deemed your claim ineligible before writing the appeal.

You may not agree with it but analyze why FEMA determined your application was ineligible. It could be as simple as a missing document, which you can submit with your appeal. Read FEMA’s letter from beginning to end to completely understand what the agency needs from you.

Tip 3: Include evidence to support your appeal.

It’s important to write a letter explaining why you disagree with FEMA’s decision, but you should also include documentation that supports what’s outlined in your appeal letter. This will help FEMA fight fraud and it can also strengthen your response.

Examples of documents to include with an appeal letter:

  • Copy of flood insurance declaration page, if applicable.
  • For proof of occupancy, FEMA accepts an employer statement, lease, utility bill (electric, water/sewer, etc.), bank or credit card statement, phone bill, cable/satellite bill, driver’s license, state-issued identification card, motor vehicle registrations, letters from local schools (public or private), documents from federal or state benefit providers, social service organizations (such as community assistance programs and non-profits), or court documents. All bills and/or statements must be dated within 3 months of the disaster.
  • To prove ownership, include your mortgage or insurance documents, mortgage payment booklet, tax receipts or a deed. If your documents were lost or destroyed, contact financial, insurance and/or government agencies in your area to see if you can get a replacement. The following website also offers guidance on replacing lost documents: http://www.usa.gov/replace-vital-documents. FEMA will also accept a written document in which you declare yourself the owner of property. The letter does not need to be notarized, but it must match the information on your FEMA application.
  • Survivors living in mobile homes or travel trailers can also include a signed statement from a commercial or mobile home park owner or a self-declaration as a last resort to prove the damaged home or rental was their primary residence.
  • For homes that have been passed down over the generations without any traditional ownership verification, you may include a public official’s letter or receipts for major repairs or improvements to verify ownership.

Tip 4: Include your application number on every page of the documents you submit.

Tip 5: Can’t write the appeal yourself? Authorize someone to write it for you.

    • If you are the applicant and are unable to write an appeal letter yourself, ask someone to write it for you. Consider asking a family member, friend or a lawyer. Just be sure to provide FEMA with a signed statement saying the writer is authorized to act on your behalf.
  • You can also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to find out more about this. Multilingual operators are available, and lines are open every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.

Tip 6: Don’t forget to sign your appeal letter. And when you’re ready, there are three ways to submit your appeal:

    • Fax it to 800-827-8112
    • Send it by mail to FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
    • Upload documents to your disasterassistance.gov account.

Tip 7: Expect a decision letter to your appeal within 90 days.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

bree-constance…Wed, 09/08/2021 - 21:40

Last updated: March 19, 2024 - 7:25 AM

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