MEMA warns scammers charge storm victims $150 for FEMA, SBA applications

MEMA said in a Facebook post that it has received reports of people charging storm victims $150 to complete applications for assistance from FEMA and the Small Business Administration.

The agency said no one from FEMA, SBA or MEMA will charge applicants to fill out disaster assistance paperwork. FEMA and the SBA are federal agencies that provide aid and low-interest disaster loans to individuals, businesses and communities after declared disasters, and their application processes are available without a third-party fee.

Officials and consumer advocates warn that scammers often target disaster survivors who need help navigating relief programs. MEMA urged residents to avoid paying for application help and to rely on official agency resources for guidance, including the MEMA website, FEMA.gov and SBA.gov.

Victims who suspect fraud should contact their state emergency management office or the appropriate federal agency. We will provide more information as it becomes available.