If I register more than once for a specific disaster will it delay the processing of my registration?
Yes, registering more than once for a specific disaster will delay the processing of your registration because duplicates must be reconciled before processing is initiated.
If I do not have a computer at home, how can I apply using the Internet?
You can apply online from any computer that uses Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 for access to the internet. If you don't have a home computer, you can check with your local library, community center, or family/friends for an available computer to access the internet.
What are the hardware (system) and software requirements for accessing and filing a disaster registration?
A computer that has access to the Internet and Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 as its Web browser should work efficiently with the FEMA Internet RI system.
We further recommend a minimum Pentium III and 128 mb of Ram for IE 6.0, with an actual minimum requirement of a 486/66 MHZ processor, Windows 98, Windows ME, Windows NT 4.0, Windows 2000, or Windows XP.
In addition, for Win 98 we suggest 16 MB of RAM, Windows ME 32 MB of RAM, Win NT 32 MB of RAM, Win 2000 32 MB of RAM, and Win XP 32 MB or RAM.
For monitors, we recommend a Super VGA (800 X 600) or higher resolution monitor with 256 colors.
Does the registration software have a time-out feature?
Yes. The registration software will time-out after 45 minutes of no activity. If you “time-out” during the registration process, your registration will not be saved. If this happens you have three options:
1. When your connectivity is restored, begin your registration again,
2. Call the FEMA Technical Helpdesk at 1-800-745-0243,
3. Call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) and complete a registration over the phone.
Can I print the electronic registration form, complete it, and mail it to FEMA?
No. We do not accept any registrations through the mail.
Can I print a copy of my completed registration? No. A copy of your completed registration will be sent to you through the mail within two weeks along with a pamphlet titled, "Help After a Disaster, Applicant's Guide to the Individuals and Households Program". This pamphlet should answer many of the questions you may have regarding FEMA's program.
Where can I obtain technical assistance for filling out the registration?
If you need technical assistance completing the FEMA Internet Registration, you can call the FEMA Technical Helpdesk toll-free number: 1-800 745-0243. This line availability corresponds with the hours for teleregistration.
What if I lose my internet connection during the registration process?
There are two options available if you lose your internet connection during the registration process:
1. If your registration did not complete, when your internet connection becomes available, start the registration over and reenter the information,
2. Call the FEMA Technical Helpdesk at 1-800-745-0243,
3. Call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) to complete your registration over the phone.
How will I know if my electronic registration was received?
At the end of the registration process, you will receive a confirmation screen informing you that your registration is complete, along with a 9 digit registration ID number. Within two weeks you will receive through the mail a copy of your registration, and a pamphlet titled, "Help After a Disaster, Applicant's Guide to the Individuals and Households Program".
When will I hear about the status of my registration and whether or not I'm eligible for assistance?
Within two weeks of submitting your registration to FEMA, you will receive by mail a copy, along with a pamphlet titled, "Help After a Disaster, Applicant's Guide to the Individuals and Households Program". This pamphlet should answer many of the questions you may have regarding FEMA's program.
If your registration is issued to an inspector to evaluate your damages, an inspector will be in contact with you within seven to fourteen days of registering. Following the inspection, you will receive a letter in the mail advising you of your eligibility. If you are eligible for assistance, you will receive the eligible amount either through the mail by check, or through direct deposit into your checking or savings account, depending on how you responded to the Electronic Funds Transfer question during registration.
How do I update my application with my new phone number or personal information?
Call the FEMA Disaster Helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) (hearing/speech impaired ONLY-call TTY: 1-800-462-7585), or visit a Disaster Recovery Center.
What if I forget my registration number?
Your Registration ID Number is displayed on all correspondence sent to you by FEMA. However, if you are corresponding with FEMA and cannot find your number, you can call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
How do I apply for Disaster Assistance?
FEMA offers two ways to apply for disaster assistance. The newest is to apply on-line through the Individual Assistance Center - Register for Assistance available on the FEMA.gov web-site. The traditional way is to call FEMA, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) and register over the phone or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the speech and hearing impaired.
http://www.fema.gov/help/registration_faq.shtm#01