SEATTLE – As Washingtonians deal with the aftermath of severe storms and flooding that occurred a week ago, the recovery process may include a flood insurance claim. There are three steps to file a claim with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP):

1. Contact your insurance agent.
2. Document your damaged property.
3. File a Proof of Loss form within 60 days of the flood.

More details are available at www.FloodSmart.gov.

Keep in mind as you go through this process:

• You do not need to wait for a Presidential Disaster Declaration to file a flood claim.
• Your policy cannot be canceled for making a claim.
• A flood insurance policy is typically separate from a homeowner’s insurance policy.

For general flood insurance questions, call your insurance company or agent or contact the NFIP at 800-638-6620 directly or through 711-Relay.