Disaster Fraud

After a disaster, scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals often attempt to take advantage of disaster survivors. We encourage survivors to watch for and report any suspicious activity.

Beware of Fraud and Scams

FEMA Housing Inspectors

An inspector will:

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  • Never ask for your nine-digit registration number. They already have it in their records.
  • Always wear an official government badge to identify themselves. Ask the person to show you their identification.
  • Not ask for bank information. FEMA never charges a fee for an inspection.
  • Not climb on roofs or enter crawl spaces.

Fake Offers of Local or Federal Aid

  • Don’t trust someone who asks for money. DHS, FEMA, SBA, and other federal agencies will never charge applicants for disaster assistance or help in filling out applications.
  • Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant and asks for large cash deposits or advance payments in full.
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Fraudulent Building Contractors

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  • Use licensed or verified local contractors backed by reliable references.
  • Don’t pay more than half the costs of repairs in advance.
  • Demand that contractors detail the job to be done with guarantees in writing.

Identity Theft

  • Disaster survivors should be aware con artists and criminals may try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.
  • If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you have not filed a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge. Tell the inspector you did not apply for FEMA assistance.
  • If you receive a letter from FEMA but did not apply for assistance, please call our Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET daily.
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Visit IdentityTheft.gov for more information and steps you can take if you suspect you're the victim of identity theft.

Report Fraud or Scams

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Contact FEMA Investigations and Inspections Division

Email: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov

Phone: 866-223-0814

Fax: 202-212-4926

Mail:
400 C Street SW
Suite 7SW-1009
Mail Stop 3005
Washington D.C., 20472-3005

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