How Do I Recover From a Disaster?

File a Claim or Call 1-800-54-Storm (1-800-547-8676)

Recovery takes time. Catastrophic events shake even the hardiest person. But, it's human nature to want to begin putting life back in order. So, here are some steps to help you on the road to recovery.

Immediately

• Secure the safety of your family.
• Do not enter your home unless you’re sure it’s safe. Depending on the type of disaster, there may be exposed electrical wires, standing water or a natural gas leak. If you have any concerns about the structural or environmental safety of your home, do not enter.
• Contact your Allstate agent directly, report your claim online or call a catastrophe specialist at 1-800-54-STORM. (1-800-547-8676)
• If you purchased a policy with another company through an Allstate agent, you should contact your Allstate agent or call 1-888-213-0085, option 6, for further information.
• Have your policy number handy and be prepared to provide contact information so your adjuster can reach you throughout the claim process. It’s important that you provide all your phone numbers, even if they are temporary.
• Tune in to your local TV and/or radio stations for Allstate catastrophe advertising and Media Alerts that provide instructions for reporting claims.
• Review your emergency plan and evaluate if improvements are needed for future emergencies.

Once the Claims Process Has Begun

• Take account of your loss and separate the damaged from the undamaged personal property.
• If available, provide your adjuster with photos or videotape of the loss site prior to the event. This will assist your adjuster with the damage evaluation process. (Do you have an up-to-date inventory and recent photographs of your personal possessions? If not, download Allstate's free home inventory software now and create a room-by-room inventory of your personal possessions.)
• If necessary, have a qualified contractor make temporary repairs to prevent additional loss. Be sure to obtain a bill or invoice for this service.
• If bills were lost or destroyed due to a catastrophic event contact your creditors to establish a workable solution. Discuss payment issues with them directly; creditors usually appreciate forthrightness.
• If your home is unlivable, check with your agent or your policy to determine if you have Additional Living Expenses coverage.
• Save all receipts to document your living expenses while your home was unlivable.
• Contact the utility companies to discontinue service if your home is unlivable or destroyed.

Financial Concerns

• Investigate the availability of special loans and/or grants via the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U.S. Small Business Administration, the American Red Cross, local government agencies, private lenders and philanthropic organizations.
• Call to apply for federal disaster aid at 1-800-462-9029 (or 1-800-462-7585 for TDD Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). You’ll be required to provide your social security number, insurance information and the extent of the damage to your property. Be sure to obtain a control number that is assigned to your application.