Allstate Helping Southern California Customers, Communities Recover from Wildfires

NORTHBROOK, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Allstate is supporting Southern California customers with their claims to help start their recovery from the wildfires. The Allstate Foundation has pledged two contributions totaling $750,000 to the American Red Cross and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, strengthening these organizations’ ability to support communities affected by disasters.

Allstate is here to help Southern California customers.

• Customers can file their claim now: Allstate policyholders affected by the wildfires can file their claim through the Allstate® Mobile app, online, by calling 1-800-54-STORM, or their local agent.
• Home claims: Customers can use their mobile devices or desktops to share images or live video of their home damage with an adjuster and help move their claim along more quickly. When it’s safe to do so, adjusters will also be on the ground ready to conduct physical inspections.
• Auto claims: Customers can immediately submit auto damage claims via QuickFoto Claim® using their smart device and the Allstate Mobile app. And if they prefer, they can connect with their adjuster using Virtual Assist® to show and share video of their damaged vehicle to help quickly move their claim along.
• Instant payments: Once a claim is settled, payments can be immediately sent for covered claims through a variety of channels, including digitally with QuickCard Pay, Fast Mobile e-Payment or one of Allstate’s other digital payment methods or through physical checks.

“We are here for our customers. We’re using customer-friendly technologies and caring claims experts to support the Southern California communities impacted by these wildfires.”

- Mike Fiato, Executive Vice President and Chief Claims Officer at Allstate

Allstate is here to help California communities.

• When nonprofits receive funding in advance of a disaster, they are better equipped to provide both immediate and long-term relief to impacted communities. The Allstate Foundation has pledged two contributions totaling $750,000 to the American Red Cross and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, strengthening these organizations’ ability to support communities affected by disasters.
• Allstate helps everyone, whether they’re a customer or not, to understand how insurance works, how to file claims and how to access government support programs.
  • The Disaster Help Center and Allstate Good Hands Recovery Guide provide general insurance information, important government resources and safety tips to help families and communities prepare for and recover from catastrophes.
  • Allstate agents aren’t just insurance experts. They live and work in the communities they serve. They are local advocates available to help residents answer their questions and provide one-on-one support especially after a disaster strikes.

Disasters affect the whole community. And at Allstate, we believe no one should face trouble alone. We are holding firm to our promise that “You’re in good hands with Allstate®” and are working to make the recovery process as smooth as possible.

Steps to Take

• Check to make sure everyone is safe. First and foremost, secure the safety of your loved ones, and let others know you’re ok.
• Don’t enter your home unless you know it’s safe. Check with fire officials before attempting to return to your home. Flare ups can occur. At your property, look for hot spots and smoldering areas. Hot embers can hide in rain gutters, under decks, in crawl spaces, and in wood/debris piles. If you’re worried it might not be safe, don’t enter.
• Start the claims process as soon as possible. Allstate customers can file their claim by going online, using the Allstate® mobile app, calling 1-800-54-STORM, or reaching out to any Allstate agent. Customers can also use MyClaim to update their contact and payment information for faster transactions.
• Document damages. Separate damaged and undamaged items. If it’s unsafe to keep damaged items, take photos or videos for your claims team and then dispose of them properly.
• Make temporary repairs. If necessary, hire a qualified contractor to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Keep all receipts and provide them to your claims team. Take photos before any repairs are made.