If you sustained losses or damage in one of the counties declared a federal disaster area following the Sept. 18, 2009 storms and flooding, you may be eligible for federal and state disaster aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

For more information, to apply by phone or to check on your claim, call:

1-800-621-FEMA (3362)

TTY 1-800-462-7585 (For the speech-or-hearing impaired)

Apply online:

www.disasterassistance.gov

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE, BUT YOU MUST APPLY!

Please have the following information available when you call:

• A phone number where you can be reached

• Social Security Number

• Current mailing address

• Address of the damaged property

• Brief description of damages

• If insured, your insurance policy number, or the agent's and company name

Government disaster assistance covers basic needs only and will not normally compensate you for your entire loss. If you have insurance, the government may help pay for basic needs not covered by an insurance policy. Some disaster aid does not have to be paid back, while other forms of help may come in the form of loans.

FEMA’s temporary housing assistance and grants for public transportation expenses, medical and dental expenses, and funeral and burial expenses do not require individuals to apply for an SBA loan. However, applicants who receive SBA loan applications must submit them to SBA loan officers to be eligible for assistance that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). For TTY call 1-800-462-7585.

For more information about Georgia Severe Storms and Flooding click here.