FEMA Warns Residents of Scammers following Winter Storms

Why is it that when disasters strike, so do the con artists? I wonder that every single time I hear of more Scams on innocent people.

If you were a victim of recent storms in Oklahoma and Texas, you need to be vigilant of imposters that are trying to get your money! FEMA and both states say that you should be on the lookout for those who would try to swindle you.  These could include vendors from roofing, fake charities, and general contractors.

If you believe that you have been a victim of disaster fraud, FEMA says you should report the fraud immediately at FEMA's Fraud Tipline.  The phone number for that line is 1-866-223-0814.

One way to secure your claim is to set up an Online FEMA Account.  It's not hard to do and will save you time and headaches.

FEMA has released instructions to setting up this online account.

Getting started
First, if you have not applied with FEMA, you may either:
▪ Visit DisasterAssistance.gov; or
▪ Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST.
o Wait times for calling the Helpline may be longer than usual. Please be patient. Applying online is quicker.
To download the FEMA app:
o Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362;
o Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362;
o Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.
Applying online or with your FEMA app is easy and available 24 hours a day.

To get instructions on how to download the FEMA app, take a look at FEMA's Instructions.

Hopefully, you will be able to get the assistance that you need to repair damages from the Winter storm without the Scammers descending upon you!  May the odds be ever in your favor.