I’ve Applied for FEMA Assistance. Now what

If you are a disaster survivor impacted by Tropical Storm Debby on August 9-10 and you reside in Lycoming, Potter, Union or Tioga counties, you have until November 12, 2024, to apply for FEMA assistance. If you have already applied for disaster assistance, here are some things you can expect as next steps.

Track your Application

To check the status of your application:

• You can create an online account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
  • Click on "Check Status" to create an account. You will need the email address you registered with.
• Track your application through the FEMA app.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center.

Preparing for an Inspection

After you apply for disaster assistance, FEMA will verify your disaster-caused damage through an inspection. Within 10 days of submitting an application, FEMA staff and inspectors may call from an unknown or restricted phone number and make several attempts to discuss your disaster-caused damage.

Do not wait for the inspection to do the following:

• File a claim with your insurance company, if you have insurance.
• Start cleaning up now, if it is safe to do so.
• Take photos of any damage.
• Make a list of your losses.
• Keep all receipts to verify expenses caused by the disaster.

Understanding and Responding to your FEMA letter

Once FEMA has reviewed your application, the results of the inspection, and/or the documentation you have submitted, you will receive a FEMA letter. The letter will be sent to you by mail or through your online account based on what you selected when you completed your application.

Please read your FEMA letter carefully. The letter will explain:

• whether you are approved for assistance
• how much assistance you will receive
• how the assistance must be used
• how to appeal FEMA's decision if you do not agree with it

If you disagree with FEMA's decision, you may appeal. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of the decision letter.

The letter sent from FEMA will provide additional details on the types of documents or information that you will need to provide if you choose to appeal FEMA's decision. If you have any questions about your FEMA letter, we encourage you to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) where FEMA staff can help clarify the message and advise you on next steps.

The documents apply specifically to the decision made. For example, if you are appealing for assistance to repair your home, you will want to provide FEMA with any receipts, bills or repair estimates received for the repairs needed.

Questions?

If you have any questions about the status of your application, inspections, your FEMA letter, or any part of the disaster assistance process, we are here to help. You can:

• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). Locate a DRC near you.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

For more information on Pennsylvania's disaster recovery, visit the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Facebook page, fema.gov/disaster/4815 and facebook.com/FEMA.

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