How to file a FEMA Individual Assistance Decision

West Virginia (WOAY)- You can appeal if you’ve received a determination letter from FEMA about your assistance application and disagree with the decision or assistance amount.  

FEMA may require more information or supporting documentation from the applicant to approve the application or additional assistance.  

The process does not end when you get your FEMA letter.  

When preparing an appeal, remember to carefully read your determination letter, act quickly as appeals must be filed within 60 days from the date on the determination letter, and keep an organized record of your documentation to submit with your appeal.  

All FEMA determination letters explain the documents that may help an applicant appeal FEMA’s decision or the awarded amount for that type of assistance. 

Supporting documents may include receipts and bills for any eligible repairs or expenses related to the disaster, repair estimates from contractors or repair services, property titles or deeds to prove ownership of the damaged property, and additional information or any other documents that may support the reasons for the appeal. 

While you can explain in your appeal why you believe FEMA’s decision was incorrect, it is not required.  

When submitting any documentation or information to FEMA for an appeal, applicants must include their full name, current phone number and address, FEMA application number and disaster number on every page, and the 911 address of the disaster-damaged home.

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

You can submit your appeal online at disasterassistance.gov or in person at your local disaster recovery center. 

For more information, you can call FEMA at 800-621-3362.