The CNMI Joint Information Center is reminding survivors that they have the right to appeal a FEMA decision if they do not agree with the determination on their disaster assistance application. FEMA decision letters explain application status, whether assistance was approved, how much assistance may be provided, how the assistance must be used, whether additional information is needed, and how to appeal.
Survivors receive FEMA decision letters by mail or email. Applicants who disagree with FEMA’s decision must submit an appeal within 60 days of the date on the decision letter. Appeals submitted by mail must be postmarked within that 60-day period, and faxed appeals must also be submitted within that timeframe.
Survivors are encouraged to file their appeal as soon as possible and include documents that support their case. Supporting documents may include receipts, bills, repair estimates, property titles or deeds, and other records that show disaster-related loss or the need for additional assistance. FEMA recommends including the applicant’s FEMA application number and disaster number on every page submitted with the appeal.
If a third-party files an appeal on behalf of an applicant, FEMA requires a signed authorization statement unless authorization is already on file. Appeals and supporting documents may be submitted online at DisasterAssistance.gov, where applicants can log in and use the Correspondence Upload Center.
Appeals may also be submitted by mail to FEMA Individuals & Households Program, Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055, or by fax to 800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA. Survivors may also receive in-person help at Survivor Recovery Centers in Saipan at the Governor Pedro Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center, in Tinian at the Tinian Youth Center, and in Rota at the Rota Youth Center.
After an appeal is submitted, FEMA may request additional information if more documentation is needed to complete the review. Public FEMA guidance indicates it may take up to 90 days for a decision to be issued, and applicants will be notified in writing by mail or through their DisasterAssistance.gov account.
The Joint Information Center also reminds survivors that the deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is Monday, June 22, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ChST. Survivors affected by the disaster are encouraged to apply as soon as possible and not wait until the deadline.
For questions about a FEMA decision letter or how to file an appeal, call the local toll-free number 671-735-1050 or the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
