Denied Ida FEMA Disaster Assistance In Chesco? County Says Residents Can Appeal

CHESTER COUNTY, PA — Chester County wants residents impacted by Hurricane Ida's flooding that if they've applied for FEMA assistance and were denied, they may appeal the decision.

In a news statement Thursday, Chester County told residents, "Don't panic if you applied for FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) assistance related to Hurricane Ida and were not approved." Those who have received a notification that they are ineligible have 60 days from the date of the determination letter to file an appeal.

According to Chester County’s Director of Emergency Services, Michael Murphy, the problem may be simple to overcome.

"You may be missing a document such as an insurance determination letter, estimates, or receipts," Murphy said. "Read the determination letter carefully. It will give you the reason for FEMA’s decision and recommended actions that may change the decision."

To file an appeal, you must call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 or visit the Disaster Recovery Center, at the Ashbridge Square Shopping Center, 545 East Lancaster Ave., in Downingtown. The Center is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

"We understand this process can be daunting, and that's why we have maintained our Disaster Recovery Center," said Chester County Commissioners' Chair Marian Moskowitz. "We are here to help. Please take advantage if you've been turned down and want to make sure you properly submit the required documents."

For more information on the appeal process, and to access forms, go here.

Make sure you know what's happening in your town. Sign up to get Patch emails and don't miss any local news: https://patch.com/subscribe.