Appeals Process

An eligible recipient that is denied assistance from the Fund, or that disputes the amount of assistance awarded, may submit an appeal to the Secretary. (1) Appeals shall be submitted in a form and manner prescribed by the Secretary and shall state the basis for the appeal, including any additional information the eligible recipient believes is relevant to the determination. (2) The Secretary may request additional documentation as necessary to evaluate an appeal, including materials related to damages, need, insurance claims, federal assistance determinations, or other funding sources. Appeals shall be reviewed by the Secretary, in consultation with MEMA, OCIR, or any other experts. The Secretary shall issue a written determination granting, modifying, or denying the appeal. (4) The Secretary’s determination on an appeal shall be final.