Not All Texans May Be Covered from Ike

Many Texans, who suffered losses due to Hurricane Ike, are covered by their insurance. Even the best coverage may not cover every need, which is why state, federal and non-profit programs are made available.

When most individual losses are covered by insurance, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may send a letter stating that the applicant is not currently eligible for federal disaster assistance. That letter can mean several things.

"This letter does not necessarily mean that an applicant is being denied assistance," said Federal Coordinating Officer Sandy Coachman. "It may mean that FEMA does not have all the information needed to make a decision regarding the applicant's disaster aid. In addition, even well-insured applicants may be eligible for other forms of assistance."

There are a number of reasons why applicants may receive ineligibility letters including:

• Information proving occupancy or ownership of the damaged property has not been verified;
• Proof of identity has not been verified;
• Insurance settlement documents not received or reviewed by FEMA.

Applicants should read their individual letters carefully and take action on items identified in the letter to qualify for assistance. If there are any questions, confusion or doubts about the letter, contact FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY: 1-800-462-7585. Be sure to have your FEMA registration number available.

Applicants with insurance should contact their insurance company and ask for a settlement letter detailing exactly what is covered under their claim. They should mail insurance settlement information to FEMA, Individuals & Households Program, and National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055 or fax to-1-800-827-8112. Be sure to include your FEMA registration number on the documents.

FEMA cannot provide money to individuals or households for losses covered by insurance. However, the individual may be eligible to be reimbursed for disaster expenses not covered by insurance. Applicants are advised to return the completed U. S. Small Business Administration loan application. Filling out the loan application is a necessary step if applicants are to be considered for some other forms of disaster assistance.

Applicants who wish to appeal a decision may do so in writing within 60 days from the date of the decision or date of the denial letter. Guidelines for appeals can be found in the Applicant's Handbook sent to everyone who registers with FEMA.