Five Things: FEMA Assistance

Hurricane Irene left residents without power and with wasted groceries and flooded basements. However, since President Obama declared Monmouth County a disastor area along with the rest of the state, aid is available for those affected by the hurricane.

Here are five things you need to know when applying for Hurricane Irene aid from FEMA:

1. There is no income threshold for disaster assistance

Believe it or not, income is not a factor in determining disaster assistance. Even if you make a substantial amount of money (and have insurance), if you experienced damage to your property assistance may be available for you.

2. You have to register before visiting a disaster center

You can do this by phone at 800-621-FEMA. 711 and Video Relay Service is available. For those with access or funcational needs, please call TTY: 800-462-7585. Registration can also be done at anytime online at www.disasterassistance.gov.

3. Have your information ready when you register

When you call or go online, you should be ready with:

• A phone number where you can be reached
• Address of damaged property
• Brief description of damages
• Insurance information
• Social Security number
• Current mailing address (separate from damaged property if inaccessible)

4. Beware of scams and be ready for the inspector

When you apply for assistance, a FEMA Inspector will visit your home. FEMA urges residents to check for proper identification of the inspector (See photos attached). When the inspector visits, they will need to see:

• Picture Identification (Driver’s License, Voter Registration Card etc.)
• Proof of Ownership/Occupancy of damaged residence (Structural Insurance, Tax Bill, Mortgage Payment Book/Utility Bill etc.)
• Insurance documents: Home and/or Auto (Structural Insurance/Auto Declaration Sheet)
• List of household occupants living in residence at time of disaster
• All disaster related damages to both real and personal property

5. Find your disaster recovery center

A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center is open as of Sunday Sept. 11 at the Henry Hudson Trail Activity Center, 945 Highway 36, Atlantic Highlands (Leonardo), NJ 07737.  Hours of operation will be 8:00 AM until 6:00 p.m. seven days per week.

For any questions, call FEMA Helpline/Registration at 1-800-621-3362.