Representatives of the Federal Emergency Management Agency are on the ground in flooded areas of eastern Kentucky.
Eligible homeowners or renters can apply for federal assistance to help with temporary housing, repairs, or replacement costs. Briana Fenton is a media relations specialist with FEMA. She said insurance claims should be filed first.
“FEMA does not duplicate any benefits, but we still want you to file a claim with your insurance and then register with FEMA because FEMA may be able to help with the cost your insurance doesn’t cover,” said Fenton.
Fenton noted the eligible counties are Breathitt, Clay, Knott, Letcher, Perry, Floyd, and Pike. She added a FEMA inspector will assess damages. Fenton said the inspector will never show up without an appointment.
“FEMA will never ask you for money. They will never ask for your full social security number or your full registration number as they will have it on file. That’s just something to know as there are fraud and scams out there unfortunately after a disaster,” said Fenton.
Registration can be made online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362. There are also five mobile registration centers. She noted FEMA provides assistance for the uninsured and underinsured. Regarding when financial assistance may be received, Fenton said it’s on a case-by-case basis and there’s not a full timeline at this point.
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