In the turmoil that accompanies the shock and loss of a disaster, misleading rumors,
half-truths and misunderstandings about available assistance may cause some hurricane-struck residents to miss out on much-needed help. Recovery officials are concerned that unreliable word-of-mouth in distressed neighborhoods and communities may deprive eligible individuals and households of vital aid from the State of Louisiana and FEMA. Residents who suffered damages and losses as a result of the hurricanes can apply for assistance immediately by calling 800/621-FEMA (3362). People with a speech- or hearing-impairment can call (TTY) 800/462-7585. Both lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week until further notice.

FEMA and the State of Louisiana clarified some of the most common misconceptions:

• I got help from the American Red Cross, so now I can't get help from FEMA or the state. Not True: FEMA and the State of Louisiana coordinate a number of programs to help disaster victims. These programs are different from the emergency food, clothing and shelter initially provided by the American Red Cross and other voluntary agencies.

• I got help from the American Red Cross, so I'm already registered with FEMA.
  Not True: Registration with the American Red Cross is not the same as registration with FEMA. For federal and state disaster assistance, you must first apply by calling 800/621-FEMA (3362) or (TTY) 800/462-7585 . You can also apply online by visiting http://www.fema.gov/.

• I have insurance, so there is no other help available. Not True: FEMA will not duplicate insurance benefits, but you may be eligible for help with losses not covered or damage in excess of your coverage ("under-insured"). That's why it is important to register for assistance even while you are working with your insurance company to assess your insurance coverage.

• I have to be poor to qualify for disaster aid. Not True: The kind of help provided depends on each applicant's circumstances. Federal and state disaster assistance programs may be available to those who suffered damage, regardless of income.

• I have to wait for my insurance adjuster before I apply for disaster assistance. Not True: Don't wait for an adjuster before applying for aid or making repairs needed to make your house livable. However, you should find out what your policy covers, and be sure to keep papers and receipts for any work.

• I rent an apartment. I can't get help. Not True: There are several types of assistance available to renters. One type of grant may help renters with temporary housing needs if they have to move because of disaster damage or loss. Another type of grant may be available to an eligible individual or family with serious, disaster-related needs and necessary expenses that are not covered by insurance or other disaster assistance programs. Also a renter may qualify for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loan.

• I'm self-employed and out of work; I can't qualify for disaster unemployment benefits. Not True: Disaster Unemployment Assistance, funded by FEMA and administered by the state, can help provide benefits for workers who would not normally qualify for unemployment compensation, including farmers, farm workers, and those who are self-employed. Anyone interested in filing for Disaster Unemployment Assistance should visit the nearest state unemployment office.

• I received the $2,000 Expedited Assistance, now I won't qualify for any other aid. Not True: The expedited assistance you received was an advance of the total amount of assistance that you may be eligible for.

• I did not receive the $2,000 Expedited Assistance, so I will be getting less.
  Not True: If you did not receive expedited assistance, and if you are eligible, you can still receive the full amount of help through FEMA's transitional housing, rental assistance, other needs assistance, and home repair programs, and through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

• I have to return home before I can apply for disaster assistance. Not True:
  You can apply from wherever you are at this time, whether you are staying with friends or family, or are sheltering with the American Red Cross or another organization. FEMA cannot help you until you register, so please register by calling 800/621-FEMA (3362) or (TTY) 800/462-7585 , or online by visiting http://www.fema.gov/.

• I already repaired my home. I don't need to apply. Not True: You might qualify for reimbursement of expenses not covered by insurance.

• I have to know exactly what the damage was before I can apply or get aid, and I can't get to my home to see. Not True: If you evacuated before the disaster and know your home was in a disaster area, report there was damage. You do not need to know the details. It will be presumed damage resulted from the storm. Do not say damages are unknown.

• I have to be present when the inspector comes to have an inspection.
  Not True: If you are not able to return home to meet an inspector, you can identify an "Authorized Agent" who can be present during the inspection, such as a trusted neighbor or relative. After you register, a FEMA inspector will contact you to schedule an appointment, and you can discuss this with the inspector. If you do not have someone in the area who can represent you, the inspector can offer an Authorized Agent who is a FEMA employee who can represent your interests.

• I have to be turned down by my bank before I can apply for a disaster loan.
  Not True: If you lived in a presidentially declared disaster parish/county, you are eligible to apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the SBA. If the SBA cannot approve your loan application, you may be referred to other agencies for additional assistance, but that can't happen if you don't return your application.

• I must own a business to apply for a loan from the SBA. Not True: The SBA low-interest disaster loan is the primary source of federal assistance for long-term recovery for homeowners, renters and business owners. SBA covers uninsured or underinsured losses for real estate damages as well as personal property damages.