The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides guidance to disaster survivors on avoiding fraud and scams related to disaster assistance.

Advice involves:

• Fraud Prevention Tips:
  • FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge fees for disaster assistance, inspections, or help with applications.
  • Legitimate FEMA representatives will only contact individuals who have initiated an application or requested assistance.
  • All FEMA representatives carry official ID badges with photos. FEMA shirts or jackets alone do not prove identity.
  • Inspectors will not visit homes without a scheduled appointment and never collect banking information.
• Contractor Scams:
  • FEMA does not endorse contractors. Only hire licensed professionals for repairs and inspections.
  • Always verify credentials before hiring anyone to repair or inspect a home.
• Donation Scams:
  • Verify charitable solicitations by requesting official contact details and confirming legitimacy with the charity.
  • Avoid giving cash or digital currency directly and request receipts.
• Reporting Fraud and Scams:
  • Report suspicious behavior or identity theft to local authorities or FEMA.
  • Contact the FEMA Fraud Investigations and Inspections Division:
  • Email: FEMA-OCSO-Tipline@fema.dhs.gov
  • Phone: 866-223-0814
  • Report to the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of the Inspector General
  • Call the Department of Justice Fraud Hotline: 866-720-5721

Web pages

• Home - https://www.fema.gov/locations/california
• Office of the Inspector General - https://www.oig.dhs.gov/