I recieved a Notice of Debt Letter. If I don't believe I owe this money or this specific amount, may I appeal FEMA's decision? And if so, how do I file an appeal?
Yes. If you disagree with the debt amount or reason, you may file an appeal. Your appeal letter must be postmarked or your fax must be date stamped by FEMA no more than 60 days after the date shown on the Notice of Debt and must include the following information:
Your full name, last four digits of your Social Security Number, disaster number and FEMA application number on all pages of your correspondence.
Written explanation of why you believe you do not owe this debt. In addition, your letter must be either notarized, include a copy of a state issued identification card, or include the following statement, "I hereby declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct." You must also sign the letter.
Copies of any documents or statements showing or explaining why you do not owe this debt.
You may request an oral hearing. The Notice of Debt letter explains what information is required to request such a hearing. FEMA will let you know if such a hearing will be granted, or if a decision can be made based on documents you sent.
You should address your appeal letter to:
FEMA Individuals & Households Program
National Processing Service Center
P.O. Box 10055
Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
FEMA will make a final decision in writing within 90 days after we receive your appeal letter, or after the conclusion of an oral hearing. If your appeal is successful, we will reduce or cancel your debt and return any money you paid to FEMA in excess of your final debt, including interest payments and other charges in excess of what you owe.
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