September 28, 2011

GOVERNOR MALLOY REMINDS RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES TO REGISTER WITH FEMA

Registration is First Step in Determining for Which Programs Residents and Businesses May Qualify

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today reminded residents and businesses that suffered damage or losses during Tropical Storm Irene that they must register with FEMA to begin the disaster assistance process. Registering with FEMA is critical, as it begins the process of evaluating for what assistance - FEMA, SBA or other programs - Connecticut residents may qualify.

"I am reminding all residents and businesses, if they have not done so already, to register with FEMA to determine if they are eligible for federal disaster assistance as a result of Tropical Storm Irene," said Governor Malloy. "FEMA cannot begin the disaster assistance process until you register."

To date, FEMA has approved more than $3.2 million in individual disaster assistance to Connecticut residents. The deadline to register with FEMA is November 3, 2011.

"Residents and businesses should allow FEMA to evaluate their damages and eligibility for assistance, even if they carry insurance," added Governor Malloy. "Individuals and businesses may qualify for low-interest loans and other beneficial disaster recovery programs."

Individuals can register with FEMA online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov anytime or by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362). Individuals with a speech or hearing disability may call (TTY) 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are staffed seven days a week, from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. local time until further notice. Help in most languages is available. Registration for federal assistance can also be made directly through web-enabled mobile devices or smartphones at m.fema.gov .

It is also important to note that residents who have already provided damage information to their towns, FEMA, state officials or 2-1-1 must still register with FEMA.

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For Immediate Release: September 28, 2011

Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy