Illinois Residents Should Register for Assistance

Illinois residents who live in Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, LaSalle and Will counties, and sustained damage or property losses from the severe storms and flooding that began on Sept. 13 should register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for assistance even if they have insurance.

FEMA's registration number is 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585 for those with speech or hearing impairments. Both phone numbers are available around the clock to help callers register for a variety of programs, including housing assistance, grants and low-interest loans. In addition, online registration is available at www.fema.gov.

Following are three basic steps to applying for FEMA assistance:

Step One - Registration

Even if you don't think you qualify, it is important to register because you may have needs that can be met by a FEMA program. You will be asked for your current phone number; address at the time of the disaster; address where you are now staying; your social security number, if available; and a general list of damages and losses you suffered. It would also be helpful to have your bank account information as it may speed up any assistance for which you may be eligible by using direct deposit.

If you have insurance, contact your insurance agent before registering with FEMA. When registering, you will need to provide the name of your agent, policy number and household financial information. Knowing the amount of coverage on your policy helps FEMA expedite any unmet and underinsured needs.

Registrants who receive an application from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), must fill it out and return it as soon as possible. Filling out an SBA disaster loan application does not guarantee that an applicant will be approved, nor does it mean they must accept a loan. Additional FEMA assistance grants may be available to homeowners and renters who do not qualify for an SBA disaster loan.

Step Two - Inspections

Following registration, a FEMA-contracted inspector will call to set up a date and time for a property inspection. Please be aware that there is not a charge for inspections, and it is a necessary step to determine damages.

Homeowners must show proof of ownership, and homeowners and renters need to prove occupancy. If insurance papers are available, the inspector will ask to review them. FEMA's inspectors record structural and personal property damage. Inspectors do not make decisions about eligibility of assistance, but simply verify and document damage, then forward the report to FEMA.

Step Three - Receiving a Check

When it has been determined by FEMA that an applicant is eligible for assistance, FEMA can issue funds. If banking information has been provided to FEMA, the funds are directly deposited by the agency into the account provided by the registrant. This option can often speed up the process of receiving assistance.