FEMA: Deadline for Superstorm Sandy Victims to Re-Open NFIP Claims Sept. 15

Press Release

Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) released the following statement regarding the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) advisory issued today regarding the ongoing Sandy Claims Review Process for National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders:

"This process is open to all Sandy victims who may have received an underpayment on their flood claim, whether due to fraud or any other reason. Thousands have already qualified for a review, and recommendations are being made," said Smith, whose district in Ocean and Monmouth Counties was hit hard by Sandy. "The administration has clearly failed Sandy victims, who never should have been placed in this position to begin with. While we are all--especially and including New Jersey policyholders--understandably hesitant to trust FEMA again, we have been assured that Sandy victims will receive the fair and equitable treatment they were previously denied and I am committed to ensuring that FEMA delivers on these promises."

NFIP policyholders have until September 15, 2015 to re-open their Sandy-related claim--even if they did not receive a letter--and may do so by phone, email, fax, or regular mail.

"I encourage anyone seeking assistance to contact me or one of the many advocacy groups working tirelessly on behalf of wronged policyholders," continued Smith. "The resolution of underpayments to Sandy victims is a critical first step towards meaningful reform of the NFIP, and I will be closely monitoring its progress."

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