How To File A FEMA Claim When A Home Is In Trust?

Due to the destruction of Hurricane Sandy, we are receiving many inquiries regarding FEMA claims involving houses that are held in a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust.  This type of Trust is used to protect the house while accessing Medicaid to pay for long term care.

Many of our clients are looking for direction as to what name to submit the claim under.  According to FEMA, the Settlor should file the claim and use his or her own social security number.

For more helpful information on FEMA claims:

FEMA HELPLINE at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

HOW DO I REGISTER FOR DISASTER ASSISTANCE?

FEMA encourages all individuals who have damages or have had to evacuate because of a federally declared disaster to apply for disaster assistance.

There are three ways to register for FEMA/state assistance.

1.     You may register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or

2.     Call the toll-free registration number at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). If you have a speech disability or hearing loss and use a TTY, call 1-800-462-7585 directly; if you use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362, or

3.     If Disaster Recovery Centers have been established in your area, they can assist you in the registration process.

After you register, you will receive a pamphlet in the mail titled, “Help After A Disaster, An Applicant’s Guide to the Individuals and Households Program.” Please read it carefully; this pamphlet should answer most of your questions and provide information about other programs that may be able to assist in your recovery efforts.

HOW DO I GET A LOAN FOR REPAIRS?

The Small Business Administration (SBA) can loan money to homeowners, renters, and business owners. Homeowners may borrow up to $200,000 for disaster related home repairs. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $40,000 to replace disaster-damaged personal property including vehicles. The SBA may not duplicate benefits from your insurance or FEMA. You may receive an SBA referral when you apply with FEMA. Questions about SBA loans should be directed to the Small Business Administration (SBA). You can contact them at 1-800-659-2955 from 8AM – 9PM (EDT), Mon – Fri or email them at [email protected].