Some disaster benefit specifics from FEMA

NLIHC has a new document up as of yesterday with responses from FEMA to practical questions on the new hurricane benefit programs (item via the FEMAAnswers wiki.) Explanations include how to appeal a denial of benefits and the FEMA procedure for appointing a local "Authorized Agent" to inspect damaged property. Also perhaps the clearest paragraph yet explaining who gets what from which program:

Evacuees who have resided in public housing will be assisted by HUD. Renters may be assisted by FEMA with rental assistance and personal property. Personal property assistance will only be provided by FEMA if the applicant is denied an SBA loan. Homeowners may be provided with rental, repair and replacement assistance. The SBA can loan money to homeowners, renters, and business owners. Homeowners may borrow up to $200,000 for disaster related home repairs. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $40,000 to replace disaster-damaged personal property including vehicles. The SBA may not duplicate benefits received from insurance or FEMA.

Also interesting:

Q: Will landlords receive notification that hurricane victims will receive the rental assistance for 3 to 18 mo[n]ths?
A: No. It is the individual tenants who receive rental assistance, not the landlords.

...and that FEMA assistance isn't means-tested... and that those early issues of up to $2,000 on debit cards do count against later housing assistance... and that rents in high-cost areas will only be subsidized above the national average after that initial period when recipients get the standardized nationwide amount of $2,358 for three months' rent... and more.

Not everything is answered clearly. Some complex questions are answered monosyllabically or anyhow Delphically. But it's progress. Definite progress.