Disaster Relief Resources

Natural disasters happen any time and any place; Maryland is not immune. In the last few years, Marylanders have experienced significant damage to their homes and personal property…the result of tornadoes, floods and hurricanes.

While natural disasters are out of our control, adequate preparation is in our control. It is also the best first step toward a quicker recovery.

The Maryland Insurance Administration wants you to have important contact information in the event you and your family experience a natural disaster.

Before the weather hits

Check your Homeowners Policy to determine what is and is not covered.

To learn more about your insurance coverage, download a copy of the Maryland Insurance Administration’s publication An Insurance Preparedness Guide for Natural Disasters here. Or you may call us at 800-492-6116 or 410-468-2000.

After a loss

If you have insurance, it is important to call your agent or insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. If you are not satisfied with the settlement offer, contact the Maryland Insurance Administration’s Property and Casualty Complaints section at 410-468-2340.

Registering for Housing and Other Aid

Register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for important resources and information. FEMA provides one-time emergency cash assistance for losses not covered by insurance coverage, including temporary housing and repair assistance. Call 800-621-FEMA or 800-462-7585 (TTY). You may also visit Disaster Assistance.

Small Business Administration Loans

The SBA is the primary source of Federal funds for long-term recovery assistance. An SBA loan can be used to repair a home, replace personal property or re-build a business or other institution. To apply, call 800-659-2955 or visit SBA.

American Cross

Contact the American Red Cross at 410-624-2000 or 800-733-2767 if you have immediate emergency needs for food, clothing, shelter or medical care. Financial assistance may be provided.

Food Stamp Assistance

You may be eligible for disaster food stamp assistance. Call 800-332-6347 for food stamp information.

Replacement of State-Issued ID

the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration at 800-950-1MVA.

Jobs

Visit the Maryland Department of Labor.

Unemployment Insurance

Call 800-827-4839 or 410-949-0022 for unemployment insurance or visit here.

Social Security

Call 800-772-1213 for location information.

Veterans Benefits

Call the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs at 410-260.3838, or visit here.

Taxes

For assistance with Federal income tax, call the Internal Revenue Service at 800-829-1040. For assistance with State taxes, contact the Maryland Comptroller’s office at 800-MD TAXES or 410-260-7980.

Debt

Call your creditors. Many will defer your loan payments, waive late fees or raise your credit limit temporarily. If you need help identifying your creditors, get a free credit report by calling 877-322-8228 or visit here.

Credit Report Errors

For questions or to make corrections to your credit report, contact the Federal Trade Commission or any of the credit reporting agencies: Trans Union at 800-916-8800, Equifax at 866-349-5191, or Experian at 888-397-3742.

Bank Accounts

For information about accessing bank accounts, lost records, ATM cards, direct deposits or how to read your bank statement, call the FDIC at 877-275-3342.