FEMA Warns Texans Against Fraudulent Information
Do your part to the stop the spread of rumors with these three easy things:
- Find trusted sources of information.
- Share information from trusted sources.
- Discourage others from sharing information from unverified sources.
Common Misinformation
Power
Rumor: FEMA is paying for energy bills for those affected by the Texas winter storm.
Fact: FEMA aid is meant to help with items such as temporary rental, or home repair assistance. Other federal agencies may provide additional support and local charitable organizations may be able to help for a short period.
Insurance
Rumor: FEMA will pay for insurance deductibles for disaster survivors.
Fact: FEMA provides financial benefits to eligible applicants who are not insured or underinsured, but those benefits occur after an insurance settlement. Disaster assistance may include financial assistance for temporary lodging and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. FEMA can't duplicate benefits from insurance or pay your deductible.
Food and Housing
Rumor: FEMA is paying for hotels if you dial a number for “Texas Disaster Relief”
Fact: There is a false phone number being shared on social media and text messages saying FEMA is paying for hotels in Texas due to the recent storm. This is a scam. The best information on legitimate sources of help in your area will come from local officials or the Texas Division of Emergency Management. If you are in one of the designated counties, you may apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362.
Rumor: FEMA is providing $800 in food vouchers to survivors in Texas
Fact: FEMA is not providing direct food vouchers. We are accepting applications for disaster assistance if you live in one of the 77 designated counties.
Common Scams
Do not trust anyone who offers financial help and then asks for money or personal information.
- DHS, FEMA, HHS and CDC staff never charge for disaster assistance.
- Federal and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money.
- Beware of visits, calls or emails from people claiming to be from FEMA asking for your Social Security number, bank account or other sensitive information. Giving out this type of information can lead to identify theft.
Information provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Texas Winter Storms Rumor Control.