Disaster Survivors Advised to Register with FEMA even if Insured

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama storm survivors should register for disaster assistance even if they may believe insurance will cover their losses from the recent storms.

“Insurance is an important part of the recovery process,” said Federal Coordinating Officer for Alabama storm recovery, Albie Lewis. “But, insurance may not meet all your needs, so registration with The Federal Emergency Management Agency and staying in touch with FEMA is very important.”

After an insurance claim has been paid, there could be uninsured losses that could be eligible under disaster assistance programs or SBA loans.

“It is important to know what your policy covers,” said Art Faulkner, Director of the Alabama Emergency Management Agency. “For example, if insurance does not include the expense of being displaced from your home, FEMA disaster housing assistance may help,” Faulkner said.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration offer assistance programs for homeowners, renters, and business owners in nine Alabama counties designated for Individual Assistance.

Residents of Baldwin, Blount, DeKalb, Etowah, Jefferson, Lee, Limestone, Mobile or Tuscaloosa counties who suffered storm damage during the period April 28 through May 5 should apply for assistance by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via smartphone at m.fema.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362, TTY 800-462-7585.  Multilingual operators are available. The deadline to register for FEMA assistance is July 1, 2014.

The SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations for uncompensated losses. The SBA may lend up to $200,000 to repair or replace homes and up to $40,000 to repair or replace personal property.

Loans are available up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster damaged real estate, and other business assets.  Eligible small businesses and nonprofits can apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster.