Posted On: June 16, 2008, 2:41 pm CDT

Posted By: BK

I am constantly seeing references to how the federal government doles out free money to anyone who has suffered a flood loss. Apparently the people who neglected to buy insurance aren't the only ones that lack understanding. Federal assistance is only available through grants and loans, both of which require a Presidential declaration before they are available. This happens in less than 50% of flooding incidents. The average grant is only $4000, and loans need to be paid back with interest. In either case, flood insurance will be required before the grant or loan is approved. I certainly agree that people need to be responsible for themselves and not depend on handouts, and apparently so does FEMA, although the masses of critics don't seem to realize it.