Georgians who have been affected by Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene this year now have the option to appeal FEMA’s decision if they were found ineligible for federal assistance.
Individuals who receive a letter from FEMA stating they are not eligible for aid after the storms, which caused widespread damage from August 4-20, 2024, can appeal the decision within 60 days from the date listed on the letter.
Tropical Storm Debby hit Georgia from August 4 through the 20. On September 24, 2024, President Joe Biden declared a major disaster. Georgia counties eligible for federal disaster assistance from Tropical Storm Debby are Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long, and Screven.
Hurricane Helene struck Georgia and caused widespread damage across the southeastern United States, starting on September 24. On September 30, 2024, President Biden declared a major disaster for numerous Georgia counties. Residents in Elbert, Rabun, and Stephens counties are eligible for federal assistance. To see a complete listing of Georgia counties eligible for federal assistance, go to www.ladrc.org/disasters/georgia-hurricane-helene/.
The first step in the appeals process is to carefully review the letter from FEMA. It will provide specific reasons for ineligibility and list the documentation needed to support the appeal. This could include receipts, repair estimates, or proof of property ownership.
An appeal allows applicants to explain why they disagree with FEMA’s decision and provide new or additional information that could impact the outcome. Some of the decisions that can be appealed include:
- Eligibility for assistance
- Amount or type of assistance granted
- Late applications
- Requests to return funds
- Denial of continued Temporary Housing Assistance
Documents and Information to Submit
Those filing an appeal should provide any relevant supporting documentation, which may include:
- Receipts
- Bills
- Repair estimates
- Property titles or deeds
- Any other documents that may help prove eligibility or need for further assistance
It’s important to note that receipts, bills, and repair estimates must include the business name and contact information so FEMA can verify the details. All documents must also include the following information:
- Recipient’s full name
- Current phone number and address
- Disaster number
- FEMA application number (written on all pages)
- Address of the disaster-damaged home
How to Send Appeals and Supporting Documents to FEMA
There are several ways to submit appeals and supporting documents to FEMA:
- Online: Upload them to your disaster assistance account at DisasterAssistance.gov
- In-Person: Visit a Disaster Recovery Center
- Mail: Send documents to FEMA, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
- Fax: Send to 1-800-827-8112
For More Information
For the latest updates on Georgia’s recovery efforts, residents can visit the following websites:
FEMA also provides updates on social media:
- Twitter: @FEMARegion4
- Facebook: FEMA or FEMA Español
- Instagram: @FEMA
- YouTube: FEMA YouTube Channel
