Don’t buy off applying to save money for someone else
New Jersey residents who were affected by Hurricane Irene should not forego registering for disaster assistance just because they think doing so will keep the assistance from reaching less-fortunate neighbors.
Federal and state officials assure residents that there is enough disaster assistance available for everyone who qualifies.
”Many times, there are people who feel others may have suffered more in a disaster than they have. And frequently these people don’t want to take money from those they think may have a greater need, especially families,” said William L. Vogel, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s federal coordinating officer.
Individual assistance is always a funding priority, said Vogel, adding that, “those financial commitments are always honored.”
To date, more than $44 million has been disbursed to Hurricane Irene survivors in New Jersey under FEMA’s individuals and households program. Nearly $42.5 million has been in housing assistance and $2.3 million providing assistance for other needs.
There are other disaster victims who do not register for assistance because they think accepting disaster assistance will interfere with other benefits they may be receiving.
”Federal and state disaster grants will not affect Social Security benefits and the grants are not taxable,” said Mr. Vogel. “Income is not considered when registering for disaster assistance.”
Registering with FEMA is required for federal aid, even if the person has registered with another disaster relief organization such as the American Red Cross, local officials or churches. Registrants with FEMA must use the name that appears on their Social Security card. Applicants need to provide:
• Social Security number;
• Address of the damaged home or apartment;
• Description of the damage;
• Information about insurance coverage;
• A current contact telephone number;
• An address where you can get mail, and
• Bank account and routing numbers if they want direct deposit of any financial assistance.