The President has Declared a Major Disaster for Dodge, Fillmore, Houston, Winona, Olmsted, Steele and Wabasha Counties, Residents can begin their relief application by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or by clicking here

6 MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT DISASTER RELIEF AND HOW TO AVOID THEM

MYTH: I’m not eligible to purchase flood insurance because I don’t live in a high flood-risk area.

FACT: In Minnesota, you can purchase flood insurance as long as your community is participating in the National Flood Insurance Program.  92 % of Minnesotans are eligible to purchase flood insurance.  To learn if you are eligible, visit www.floodsmart.gov

MYTH: My house has to be knocked off of its foundation in order for me to receive benefits from the National Flood Insurance Program.

FACT: In general, physical damage to your building or personal property directly caused by a flood is covered by your flood insurance policy. For more detailed guidelines click here www.floodsmart.gov .

MYTH: I don’t want to submit a flood insurance claim because there may not be enough money for everyone and my neighbor needs the money more than I do.

FACT: There are enough disaster funds to take care of every eligible applicant.  If you have an eligible claim under the National Flood Insurance Program, you should contact your insurance provider.

MYTH: I’ve already repaired my home. It’s too late to apply for insurance.

FACT: You may qualify for reimbursement of expenses not covered by your insurance. Keep all receipts for disaster-related repairs.

MYTH: Disaster assistance is only available to people with low-incomes.

FACT: Although some restrictions apply, most forms of federal and state disaster assistance are available to those who suffered damage, regardless of income.  The help available depends on each individual’s circumstances and needs.

MYTH: I applied for assistance from FEMA and/or SBA, but I was denied. There is nothing more they can do to help.

FACT: There is an appeals process that is available when an individual’s circumstances have changed.

All appeals must be in writing.  Applicants—or an individual acting on their behalf—should submit a signed letter explaining why the decision to deny assistance was incorrect.  The letter should include the appropriate FEMA/SBA application number on each page of the letter and on the documentation.  If the person writing the letter is not a member of their household, please include a signed statement from the applicant affirming that the person may act on their behalf.

The appeal letter must be postmarked, received by fax or personally submitted at a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) within 60 days of the date on the decision letter.  Applicants should date their appeal letter and be sure to mail, fax or drop it off in person at a DRC within 60 days of their dated decision letter. They should also retain a copy of the appeal letter for their own records.

Or drop it off in person at a Disaster Recovery Center.