Week 1: Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 1 on WindRainFlood.Com. Get all the answers you need to navigate the first week of your disaster recovery process.

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Week 1: General FAQs.

What are the initial steps to take after a disaster?

This section outlines the steps to ensure safety, contact authorities, contact insurance companies, register for federal assistance, document the damage, follow official instructions, mitigate further damage, keep records, seek local assistance, and stay patient and persistent.

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What are the federal assistance programs available for disaster recovery?

This section explains the role of FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and SBA (Small Business Administration) in providing disaster assistance, such as grants and loans, to eligible homeowners.

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What are the best practices for managing insurance claims and recovery efforts?

The page advises homeowners to contact their insurance companies promptly, take time-date stamped photos and videos of the damage, and keep a record of all communication with insurers and agencies. It also warns homeowners to be aware of all their options before accepting any SBA disaster loan.

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What organizations provide temporary housing assistance during disaster recovery?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross are two such organizations that provide temporary housing assistance to eligible individuals and households affected by a disaster. FEMA's Individual Assistance program provides financial assistance to homeowners and renters, while the Red Cross offers shelters if you have to evacuate your home during a disaster.

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What is the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)?

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners. It is designed to provide an insurance alternative to disaster assistance to meet the escalating costs of repairing damage to buildings and their contents caused by floods.

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What is the Disaster Home Loans program?

The Disaster Home Loans program provides creditworthy homeowners with up to $200,000 to repair or restore their primary residence to its pre-disaster condition. The loans are designed to help homeowners affected by disasters who do not have the means to finance repairs or restoration themselves.

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How do I apply for temporary shelter assistance?

To apply for temporary shelter assistance, you need to register with FEMA. You can register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. Once you've registered, you'll be able to find short-term shelter options near you and work towards long-term solutions.

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What is the Small Business Administration (SBA)?

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is a federal agency that provides support to small businesses and entrepreneurs. In the context of disaster recovery, the SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners and businesses to aid in recovery efforts.

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What is the difference between a FEMA grant and a loan?

FEMA grant is financial assistance that does not need to be repaid as long as the funds are used for approved activities outlined in your grant award documentation. A loan, on the other hand, is a sum of money that must be repaid with interest.

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What is the process for filing an insurance claim after a disaster?

Contact your insurance company promptly to initiate the claims process. Make sure to document the damage by taking photos and keeping records of all communication with your insurer.

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What is the role of volunteer groups in disaster recovery?

Volunteer groups like the Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity provide disaster relief services, including temporary housing assistance. They also play a significant role in rebuilding communities and restoring infrastructure.

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What should I do if my home is not safe to inhabit after a disaster?

If the damage is severe and your home is not safe to inhabit or you are unsure, evacuate immediately and seek temporary shelter with friends, family, or at a designated emergency shelter. The safety of you and your family should be the top priority.

More on this topic: Shelter Assistance.

What is the best way to ensure a steady food supply during disaster recovery?

Ensure you have enough food supplies on hand. Whenever someone offers you food or the opportunity to store it, accept it, even if you don't think you need it right away.

More on this topic: Food Assistance.

How can I find food distribution centers set up nearby?

If you hear about food distribution centers set up nearby, make sure to assign at least one person from your household to go there for hot meals 2 to 3 times a day.

More on this topic: Food Assistance.

How can I locate mobile food trucks that provide food assistance during disaster recovery?

Certain food services operate from mobile units, and you'll need to listen for their announcements or updates. These units don't follow fixed routes and don't visit the same places frequently. Connect with your online community to locate these mobile food trucks, enabling you to meet them and obtain extra meals.

More on this topic: Food Assistance.

What is SNAP and how does it work?

Food assistance programs, also known as SNAP, are managed at the state level and are separate from the FEMA process. FEMA later reimburses the state for providing this aid to disaster survivors. This assistance can be provided within 1 to 14 days following the disaster.

More on this topic: Food Assistance.

What faith-based volunteer groups provide food aid after disasters?

Major faith-based volunteer groups that respond with food aid after disasters include the Salvation Army, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, Catholic Charities USA, Mennonite Disaster Service, Lutheran Disaster Response, and Samaritan's Purse.

More on this topic: Food Assistance.

What is the first priority when it comes to disaster recovery?

Securing shelter is your immediate priority. Whether it's staying in your car, setting up a tent in your front yard, hunkering down in your recreational trailer, or seeking refuge with friends and family, it's crucial to establish short-term shelter, which may last anywhere from 1 to 30 days, to provide you with the necessary time to find a long-term housing solution that will be offered by FEMA and HUD for up to 22 to 32 months if needed.

More on this topic: Shelter Assistance.

What is FEMA Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA)?

FEMA's transitional shelter program will pay for your hotel stay while you are displaced only after you register and qualify for TSA. Hotels and motels that provide rooms paid by FEMA vouchers require FEMA registration.

More on this topic: Shelter Assistance.

What is the FEMA Emergency Shelter program?

Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to talk with someone in person for guidance or information.

More on this topic: Shelter Assistance.

What is the Red Cross Shelter Map?

The Red Cross offers shelters if you have to evacuate your home during a disaster.

More on this topic: Shelter Assistance.

What is the FCC Dial 211 for Essential Community Services program?

The FCC Dial 211 for Essential Community Services program provides basic human needs resources, including food and clothing banks, shelters, rent assistance, and utility assistance.

More on this topic: Shelter Assistance.

What organizations provide prescription assistance to disaster survivors?

Various organizations and agencies have a role in providing prescriptions and healthcare to disaster survivors in the aftermath of emergencies. These include the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), local public health departments, healthcare providers and hospitals, pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

More on this topic: Medical Assistance.

What is the role of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in disaster recovery?

HHS / ASPR is responsible for public health and healthcare services. During disasters, agencies within HHS, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), work to provide medical support and resources to affected communities.

More on this topic: Medical Assistance.

What is the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)?

MRC units are community-based volunteer organizations that assist in public health emergency responses. They can provide medical services, including prescription assistance and healthcare, to disaster survivors.

More on this topic: Medical Assistance.

What is the role of local public health departments in disaster recovery?

Local health departments often play a crucial role in disaster response by providing medical services and coordinating with healthcare providers to ensure access to prescriptions and healthcare for survivors.

More on this topic: Medical Assistance.

What is the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in disaster recovery?

Organizations like Direct Relief, Americares, and International Medical Corps specialize in providing medical assistance, including prescriptions, healthcare services, and medical supplies, during disasters.

More on this topic: Medical Assistance.

What is the Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) program?

The Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) program offers temporary benefits to individuals who have lost their employment or self-employment directly due to a major disaster. This assistance is available to those who do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance (UI).

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

Who determines eligibility for DUA?

The eligibility for DUA is determined by the state UI agency, which first checks if individuals qualify for regular UI benefits. If they are eligible for regular UI benefits, they will receive those instead of DUA.

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

What is the role of the U.S. Department of Labor in DUA?

The U.S. Department of Labor oversees the DUA program and collaborates with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) within the Department of Homeland Security. The administration of DUA is carried out by state UI agencies acting as representatives of the Federal government whenever a disaster declaration, including DUA, is issued for "individual assistance".

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

What is a "Major Disaster"?

A "Major Disaster" encompasses any significant natural or man-made catastrophe, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, or other incidents like explosions or natural gas leaks. It leads to a Presidential declaration of a disaster. Such a declaration is issued when it's established that governmental aid is necessary for communities and individuals who have been directly impacted by the disaster. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) becomes accessible when the declaration includes provisions for individual assistance, including DUA.

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

Who can request a major disaster declaration?

Upon the request of a state Governor or Tribal Governor/Chief, the President has the authority to declare a major disaster in the state. This declaration specifies the areas impacted by the disaster and may grant authorization for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). Public announcements are issued to inform the public of the availability of DUA.

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

What are the qualifying conditions for DUA?

One of the following conditions of unemployment must have occurred as a direct result of the disaster to qualify for DUA: the individual has had a week of unemployment following the date the major disaster began; the individual is unable to reach his/her place of employment; the individual was scheduled to start work and the job no longer exists or the individual was unable to reach the job; the individual became the breadwinner or major support because the head of the household died as a direct result of the disaster; or the individual cannot work because of an injury caused as a direct result of the disaster.

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

What are the eligibility requirements for DUA?

In order to be eligible for DUA, individuals must not be eligible for regular UI; be unemployed as a direct result of the disaster; be able and available for work (unless injured as a direct result of the disaster); filed an application for DUA within 30 days of the public announcement of DUA availability; and have not refused an offer of employment in a suitable position.

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

How do I file a claim for DUA?

To file a claim, individuals who are unemployed as a direct result of the disaster should contact their State Unemployment Insurance agency. Applications must be filed within 30 days of the announcement of DUA availability in the state, following the filing method used by their state UI agency (in-person, mail, telephone, or internet).

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

What documentation is needed for DUA?

The individual will need to provide proof (e.g., income tax return, bank statements) to document employment or self-employment or to document work that was to begin on or after the date of the disaster. If proof of employment cannot be provided at the time the claim is filed, individuals have 21 calendar days from the time the claim was filed to meet this requirement.

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

How is the weekly benefit amount (WBA) for DUA calculated?

The weekly benefit amount (WBA) will be based on the gross wages of the individual. If the individual is self-employed, the weekly benefit amount will be based on the net earnings (income) from self-employment. Generally, benefits are calculated using the same formula used for state UI benefits; however, if the individual qualifies for less than 50 percent of the state average UI WBA, the WBA will be increased to 50 percent of the stateโ€™s average WBA, with certain exceptions for part-time workers.

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

How long are DUA benefits paid?

DUA benefits are generally paid for up to 26 weeks, beginning with the first week following the date the major disaster began, and ending with the 26th week following the date the major disaster is declared by the President.

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

Who funds DUA benefit payments?

FEMA provides the funding for DUA benefit payments and the costs for states to administer the program. DUA payments are made by state UI agencies to eligible individuals unemployed as a direct result of the disaster.

More on this topic: Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA).

What is "Disaster Debt"?

Disaster Debt refers to the additional financial obligations that a household takes on to recover from a major disaster.

More on this topic: Managing Disaster Debt.

How does flood insurance payout work with a mortgage?

In cases of substantial damage, your flood insurance may pay out the full amount with a two-party check, with your home's first lien holder (mortgage) listed. The mortgage handler may use the funds to pay off your mortgage, potentially leaving you without sufficient funds for reconstruction or repair if the insurance amount was less than the full reconstruction cost.

More on this topic: Managing Disaster Debt.

What is "Forced Mortgage Payoff"?

A "Forced Mortgage Payoff" occurs when, to safeguard their investment, your mortgage handler uses your flood insurance proceeds to pay off your mortgage without further consultation, especially if the home is substantially damaged. This can leave you with limited funds for rebuilding.

More on this topic: Managing Disaster Debt.

Why is understanding discretionary income important after a disaster?

Understanding discretionary income is crucial for making well-informed financial choices regarding your recovery process. It enables you to allocate funds for crucial repairs and disaster-related expenses without resorting to additional debt. It's important to maintain a minimum of 15% discretionary income each month to avoid the risk of defaulting on any new loans.

More on this topic: Managing Disaster Debt.

How can I calculate my potential disaster debt burden?

Your disaster debt burden can be calculated before a major event by reviewing your insurance coverage. This involves reviewing and adjusting the estimated expense for replacing your home (including demolition and new construction), considering disaster mitigation requirements, building codes, and the cost per square foot for new construction with mitigation and green building practices.

More on this topic: Managing Disaster Debt.

What is "Guaranteed Replacement Cost" coverage in insurance?

"Guaranteed Replacement Cost" coverage is an insurance option that ensures your policy covers the full cost of complete reconstruction in the event of a major disaster, even if material and labor costs increase significantly. This type of policy coverage needs to be specifically requested from your insurance provider.

More on this topic: Managing Disaster Debt.

What options are available if my insurance doesn't cover the full cost of rebuilding?

If your insurance doesn't cover the full cost, you can gather additional funds using savings, retirement funds, private loans, or borrowing from family. You can also apply for federal financial assistance in the form of grants from state-managed HUD CDBG-DR programs or apply for an SBA Disaster Loan (though accepting an SBA loan may disqualify you from certain HUD CDBG-DR grant programs).

More on this topic: Managing Disaster Debt.

What are the key safety measures for homeowners managing volunteers after a disaster?

Homeowners should conduct a daily health and safety briefing for all individuals present on their property, pinpoint specific areas where personal protective equipment (PPE) is required, and either supply the necessary gear or instruct workers to bring their own. They should also have a legally binding waiver that absolves them of any liability in case of accidents or injuries involving volunteer groups or individuals.

More on this topic: Community Efforts.

What information should be collected from volunteers?

Current sign-in sheet categories should include: First and Last name, identification used, medical conditions and physical limitations, medical insurance type of coverage, and indemnity cause acknowledgment to hold harmless in the event of an accident and/or injury. This information is crucial for communicating with first responders in case of an injury.

More on this topic: Community Efforts.

Does homeowners insurance cover liability for volunteers?

Generally, standard homeowners insurance policies should encompass liability coverage for incidents involving volunteers. However, if this isn't the case, consulting your insurance company is recommended to obtain appropriate coverage to safeguard against potential liability claims and legal proceedings.

More on this topic: Community Efforts.

What is the difference between Not for Profit Organizations and Unaffiliated Volunteers?

Not for Profit Organizations providing volunteers often have robust screening, training, and comprehensive information on indemnification waivers. Unaffiliated individuals volunteering directly to you may offer specialized assistance, but it is up to the homeowner to do their due diligence and vet the person, as the responsibility falls on the homeowner if a claim is filed.

More on this topic: Community Efforts.

What is the FEMA Sequence of Delivery for disaster recovery assistance?

The FEMA Sequence of Delivery dictates the order in which disaster survivors receive assistance from FEMA and relief partners. It aims to ensure applicants receive all entitled assistance, adhering to FEMA policy and federal regulations, and preventing duplicative benefits.

More on this topic: Sequence of Delivery.

What is the order of the Sequence of Delivery for Disaster Recovery?

The order is: Emergency Assistance from Voluntary Agencies (Food, Shelter, Clothing, Medical); Private and Federally Secured Insurance Coverage (Homeowner, Renter, Flood); Long-Term and Short-Term Housing Assistance (Lodging Expense Reimbursement, Temporary Rental, Shelter in Place Repairs, Replacement Assistance, Temporary Housing, Lease); Other Needs Assistance (ONA) - Non-Income Based, Non SBA Dependent Items (Funeral, Medical, Dental, Child Care, Critical Needs Assistance); SBA Disaster Assistance for Home and personal property loans; Other Needs Assistance (ONA) - Income Based; Other Needs Assistance (ONA) - Governor Allowed; Unmet Needs combined with Other Needs Assistance (ONA) - Income Based (HUD CDBG-DR grants); and Unmet Needs - Federal and State programs funded by US Taxpayers (forgivable loans, loan interest loans, low-income business loans).

More on this topic: Sequence of Delivery.

How does the Sequence of Delivery protect taxpayers?

The FEMA disaster sequence of assistance delivery ensures that survivors receive aid in a specific order, preventing the provision of duplicative benefits or services at any time during the federally funded recovery process. This serves as a checksum process to protect American taxpayers from fraud and abuse of federal dollars provided by taxpayers.

More on this topic: Sequence of Delivery.

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by Murray Wennerlund
Expert Strategies for a Smoother Rebuilding Journey.

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