FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 25, 2016

Extension Granted to Louisiana NFIP Policyholders Affected by March Storms

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon announced today that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has granted a 60-day extension on filing the Proof of Loss form for National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders who were affected by storms across the state in March. The program normally requires policyholders to file that form within 60 days of suffering flood damage.

“I am pleased to report this deadline extension which may provide some relief to Louisiana residents faced with the daunting recovery challenges created by the spring floods,” said Commissioner Donelon. “My hope is that this flood event will also serve as a reminder to other property owners of the importance of securing flood insurance coverage especially as we prepare to enter hurricane season.”

It’s important to understand that filing the Proof of Loss is necessary even after filing a claim for your flood damage. The Proof of Loss is a sworn statement of the amount a policyholder is claiming including necessary supporting documentation. The form must contain the specific details required by the Standard Flood Insurance Policy. This document substantiates the insurance claim and is required before the NFIP can make payment. Those needing to file a Proof of Loss form with the NFIP are urged to contact their agent or call the NFIP Claims Call Center at 1-800-621-3362 for assistance.  

The filing extension covers policyholders in the 36 Louisiana parishes that were included in the federal disaster declaration issued last month. FEMA’s extension brings the total time to file a Proof of Loss form up to 120 days after the damage. For example, an NFIP policyholder who suffered a loss on March 7, 2016 now has until July 6, 2016 to file their form.

According to FEMA, as of April 22 a total of 4,833 claims have been filed and more than $90 million has been paid on all claims in Louisiana. The average payment for a closed claim is about $42,000.

To read the FEMA bulletin granting the extension to Louisiana policyholders, click here. 

About the Louisiana Department of Insurance: The Louisiana Department of Insurance works to improve competition in the state’s insurance market while assisting individuals and businesses with the information and resources they need to be informed consumers of insurance. As a regulator, the LDI enforces the laws that provide a fair and stable marketplace and makes certain that insurers comply with the laws in place to protect policyholders. You can contact the LDI by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov.