How to Appeal a FEMA Decision

FEMA's first decision may not be the final decision. Survivors have the right to appeal any FEMA decision or award amount.

How do I appeal?

You can appeal any FEMA decision or award amount by sending documents that show you qualify and need more help, like estimates for repairs, receipts, bills, etc. Each decision letter you receive from FEMA explains the reason you are ineligible and the types of documents that may help you appeal FEMA's decision or award amount for that type of assistance.

Supporting documents may include:

• Receipts;
• Bills;
• Repair estimates;
• Property titles or deeds; or
• Any other information that may support the reasons for the appeal.

Do I have to send any other documents?

No. Documentation or estimates supporting your claim is all that is required to appeal a FEMA decision. You can also fill out the Appeal Request Form included with your FEMA decision latter. Appeals must be submitted within 60 days of the date on the FEMA decision letter.

What should I include on documents I send to FEMA?

All documents you send to FEMA as part of your appeal should include your:

• Full name;
• Current phone number and address;
• Disaster Number and FEMA Application Number written on all pages; and
• Address of the disaster-damaged home.

Receipts, bills, and estimates must include the business name and contact information to help FEMA confirm the information.

Can someone appeal for me?

Yes. If you send a written explanation for the appeal that is written by someone other than you, it must include their signature. FEMA will need your written permission to share information about your application. You can do this by completing an Authorization for the Release of Information Under the Privacy Act form and sending it to FEMA.

How can I send documents?

• Upload to your disaster assistance account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Mail to:
  FEMA
  P.O. Box 10055,
  Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
  Fax to 1-800-827-8112
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). To find your nearest DRC, visit fema.gov/drc or text "DRC" and a zip code to 43362.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. Homeowners and renters in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.

There's Still Time to Apply to FEMA

Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362.

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