Helena, Mont.– After you apply for FEMA assistance, you will receive a letter explaining the status of your application. This letter explains the types of assistance FEMA has determined you are eligible to receive, the amounts of assistance FEMA is providing for each eligible need, the reasons an applicant would be ineligible for specific types of assistance, an explanation of the appeals process, and other key information regarding disaster assistance.
FEMA assistance is not the same as insurance. Federal assistance from FEMA only provides funds for temporary housing and basic repairs for a home to be safe, sanitary and functional.
The amount and type of housing assistance you receive might be different from assistance your neighbor receives, even though the damage appears to be similar. For example, one homeowner might have more extensive insurance coverage than the homeowner next door, which could result in a different amount of FEMA assistance received.
If you are eligible for assistance, FEMA will provide:
- A check by mail or a direct deposit into your checking or savings account
- An explanation on how you are to use the money
If you are ineligible for assistance, FEMA will provide:
- An explanation as to why you did not qualify
- An opportunity to appeal the decision
If you received a letter stating you’re ineligible for assistance or “no decision” can be made at this time, don’t be discouraged or frustrated. Instead, read the entire letter to find out what’s needed for FEMA to continue processing your application. Many times, it’s a simple fix that can be addressed in an appeal. You can complete an incomplete application or appeal the decision within 60 days of receiving a decision letter.
The Appeal Process
An appeal is a written request to FEMA to review your file again, and an opportunity to provide new or additional information not previously submitted that may affect the decision. You may appeal any decision by FEMA regarding your application for Individual Assistance, such as your initial eligibility decision, the amount or type of assistance provided to you, late applications, requests to return money, or a denial of Continued Temporary Housing Assistance.
An appeal should be filed in the form of a signed letter within 60 days of the date on the determination letter. In the appeal, explain why you disagree with the decision. Be sure to include the following:
- Applicant’s full name, current address and damaged dwelling address.
- Applicant’s FEMA registration number, found at the top of the determination letter (include on every page)
- FEMA disaster declaration number (include on every page)
- Applicant’s signature and the date
If you choose to have a third party submit an appeal on your behalf, the appeal letter must be signed by the third party. Additionally, please include a statement signed by you authorizing the third party to appeal on your behalf.
It is important to read and follow up with any correspondence from FEMA. You may have to log into your account on DisasterAssistance.gov or call the helpline at 800-621-3362 to keep the application process moving. You should also keep your contact information updated with a current address and phone number to ensure FEMA can reach you with new information or questions.
If you have additional questions, contact the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to speak with a representative or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a location near you, visit FEMA.gov/DRC.
Contact the FEMA Mitigation Helpline at 833-FEMA-4-US (833-336-2487) for information on resilient building practices. Mitigation specialists are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. MDT. You can also email the team at FEMA-R8-Hmhelp@fema.dhs.gov.
For more information about FEMA’s support to Montana’s flooding and severe storms recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4655. Follow the FEMA Region 8 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion8.