Emergency Resources

If the unthinkable happens, we understand that your most valuable assets are more than just items on a balance sheet.

Sites to Check Out

We know that information is critical during a time of catastrophe. The following sites are additional resources to assist with preparing for and recovering from disaster.

• American Red Cross
  The American Red Cross not only provides disaster relief nationally, butis part of a global humanitarian network, responding to those in need.
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
  FEMA is an independent agency of the federal government, which provides preparedness and response and recovery support to the nation.
• National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
  NOAA is a federal agency and the primary source of weather data and warnings for the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions about FEMA

1. What if I don't have enough (or any) insurance?
   You may qualify for grants from FEMA, low-interest loans from the Small Business Administration, or the Farm Service Agency, or you may qualify for tax refunds for items that were not covered by insurance.
2. How do I get assistance?
   Information on tax assistance, grants and loans can be obtained at a Disaster Recovery Center, or by calling FEMA at 1-800-462-9029. After your application is taken, the damaged property is inspected to verify the loss, and a determination will be made on the type and extent of assistance to be provided. Audits are done later to ensure that the aid went to only those who were eligible and that the funds were used for their intended purposes.
3. What services are available?
   FEMA may be able to provide Disaster Housing for up to 18 months, Low Interest Disaster Loans (from the SBA) to cover uninsured property losses, Disaster Grants to earthquake victims who would be unable to repay a loan, and other services such as crises counseling, unemployment assistance, legal aid, and assistance with income tax implications.
4. When should I apply?
   FEMA encourages earthquake victims to apply for aid as soon as possible. The deadline for most individual assistance programs is 60 days following the Presidents major disaster declaration.
5. What assistance is available from the SBA?
   The SBA has a Disaster Loan program that helps homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and nonprofit organizations fund rebuilding after a disaster. The loans generally have low interest rates and long repayment terms to make SBA recovery more affordable.
6. What if I need more information?
   More information is available by visiting FEMAs website at www.fema.gov, and by visiting the SBA website at www.sba.gov. You can also contact the IRS about tax relief by calling 1-800-829-1040.