FEMA Says File Insurance Claims Before Calling Agency

Release date: December 6, 2013 Release Number: 4157-004 SPRINGFIELD, IL -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends that survivors with homeowner’s insurance affected by the Nov. 17 Illinois tornadoes file a claim with their insurance company and then register for federal disaster assistance. Once Illinois residents have filed their insurance claim and registered for assistance, it’s important to be aware of the next steps in the process: Insured applicants will receive a determination letter from FEMA --- survivors should read the entire letter carefully. The letter may state that they’re ineligible for assistance, but this isn’t necessarily a final decision. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance benefits. To continue processing their application, survivors must submit insurance settlement documents to FEMA. The insurance documents will be reviewed; then an inspector may arrange a visit to the damaged home or apartment to determine if the applicant has uninsured, eligible losses. Federal disaster assistance may then be available to assist in filling the gaps that a survivor’s insurance has not covered. Survivors can call 800-621-FEMA (3362) if they have any questions. Applicants can mail insurance settlement information to: The Federal Emergency Management Agency P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055 Insurance settlement information can also be faxed to 800-827-8112. Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) will also be opening to serve people who were affected by the recent severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes. Visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4157 for information on these recovery centers. FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.