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How to appeal FEMA eligibility after Hurricane Irma

Posted at 1:37 PM, Dec 07, 2017
and last updated 2017-12-07 17:39:49-05

If you registered with FEMA after Hurricane Irma and got a letter back regarding your eligibility for aid that you aren't happy with, that may not be the final answer.

You may just need to submit extra documents for FEMA to process your application: forms like an insurance settlement letter or proof that you own the property that's damaged.

If you want to appeal your determination letter, you must do so in writing within 60 days of receiving the letter. 

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If you have any questions call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 for voice, 711 and Video Relay Service (VRS). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week, until further notice.

There are several reasons why you may have been deemed ineligible:

RELATED: Hurricane Irma: Florida Disaster SNAP benefits guide

To ensure accuracy and help FEMA process your appeal, you will need to include the following information in your letter:
•    Your full name.
•    The address of your damaged property.
•    Current contact information.
•    Disaster number: DR-4337-FL.
•    Last four digits of your Social Security number.
•    Your birthdate and place of birth.
•    Your nine-digit FEMA registration number on each page and on supporting documentation.
•    Notarization of your letter including a copy of a state issued identification card, or include the following statement, “I hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct.”
•    Your signature.
 
If someone other than you or the co-applicant is writing the letter, you must sign a statement affirming that the person may act on your behalf. You should keep a copy of your appeal for your records.

Appeal letters can be mailed to 

FEMA – Individuals & Households Program
National Processing Service Center
P.O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

You will get a written response from FEMA regarding the agency’s decision within 90 days of the receipt of your letter. FEMA’s decision is final and cannot be appealed again.