SAIPAN — FEMA and the CNMI Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management have published a five-fact explainer aimed at clearing up common questions and misconceptions about applying for federal disaster assistance after Super Typhoon Sinlaku.
The first fact addresses program overlap. Applying for FEMA assistance does not automatically register a survivor for the Emergency Tent or Temporary Roof programs, the agencies said. Those are separate programs with their own enrollment processes.
The second fact addresses eligibility. Both homeowners and renters are eligible for FEMA assistance.
The third fact addresses occupancy verification. Survivors can verify occupancy of a storm-damaged property in any of four ways: a letter from the property owner or landlord, a document from the survivor’s employer, a document from a school, or a signed statement from a public official.
The fourth fact addresses access. Survivor Recovery Centers will remain open as a centralized place for information.
The fifth fact addresses appeal rights. Everyone has the right to appeal a FEMA decision.
Sinlaku survivors can apply for FEMA assistance by calling the local survivor line at 671-735-1050, the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, or online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors can also apply in person at any Survivor Recovery Center.
