[Katrina-IT-Volunteers] Counseling, and FEMA applications

[Chip Rosenthal]

On Fri, Sep 09, 2005 at 09:22:32AM -0700, Ray Shea wrote:
> Is there any way we can get some kind of official
> instructions on how to fill out the FEMA application? 

The usability of the system is distressing.  Imagine the poor folks that
don't have the computer skills we do ...

I've never done one completely end-to-end.  Can somebody clarify the
process for me?  Here is what I think is going on:

1.  First, you register your case and get a FEMA ID.
2.  Then, you continue to create an online account so that you can check
    the case status.

Is that what is happening?  I ask because when I was there earlier this
week, lots of people were getting IDs but failing to create accounts.
At the time we were thinking this meant they didn't have a case in the
system, but now I'm thinking they do.

Second question, once a loved one has been located elsewhere (say San
Antone or Houston), what is the best next step?

-- 
Chip Rosenthal * chip at unicom.com * http://www.unicom.com/
W00t!  I have a weblog! * http://www.unicom.com/chrome/