Los Angeles County officials on Tuesday moved to provide clarity to wildfire victims who applied for relief assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and received a response that said the application was "not approved."
"If the letter says you are 'not approved' for assistance, it does not mean you have been denied assistance. Understanding this letter and any next steps you need to take is critical to move your recovery forward," an explanatory page, titled "Understanding FEMA Determination Letter," said on the official L.A. County Recovers website.
"It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of money FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of that money," the website said. "The letter will also explain your application status and advise what you need to do to appeal if you do not agree with FEMA's decision."
Officials noted that people with insurance may receive an initial "not approved" decision but that FEMA assistance may nonetheless still be available.
"FEMA may need your insurance determination to be finalized in order to continue processing your application to make sure you are not receiving financial aid for the same damage twice," according to L.A. County Recovers. "By law, FEMA cannot pay for costs related to the wildfires that your insurance already covers."
After 30 days or more have passed since an insurance claim has been filed, if a settlement has not been received, wildfire victims are urged to contact the FEMA helpline at (800) 621-3362. FEMA may be able to provide some initial funds while residents wait for their insurance payout, officials said.
The website also included tips to help FEMA keep applicants on track toward recovery, instructions on how to appeal a FEMA decision, and information about other federal support that may be available.
The agency has received more than 40,000 applications in connection with the Southern California wildfires and has provided more than $8 million in relief, the agency said.
