CFO Jimmy Patronis Doubles Down on Consumer Protection Efforts Recovering More Than $23 Million for Floridians

TALLAHASSEE, Florida, March 5 -- The Florida Department of Financial Services issued the following news release:

Highlighting National Consumer Protection Week, Florida's Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis today announced since July 1, 2017, his Division of Consumer Services has helped more than 2,761 consumers recover millions from insurance, financial, and other companies. Recoveries included insurance claim payments and premium refunds that consumers turned to the Department of Financial Services for help.

CFO Jimmy Patronis stated, "We've worked diligently to recover nearly $23.4 million for Florida consumers, with $8.4 million of those dollars directly related to Hurricane Irma. More than 40 counties in Florida were affected by this year's active hurricane season, and my office worked tirelessly to serve as a one stop shop for consumers who needed assistance resolving their insurance questions or complaints.

"Helping protect our consumers from being taken advantage of will remain my top priority. With data breaches and identity fraud becoming more common and hurricane season just three months away, it's critical that Floridians have someone trusted they can turn to when faced with insurance or financial-related issues. We've even pushed for legislation this year that helps Floridians more easily protect themselves from identity fraud. Consumers deserve an advocate that works for them and as your CFO, I will continue to serve as that advocate."

CFO Patronis' consumer helpline (1-877-MYFLCFO) helps Floridians understand their rights with the insurance claims-filing process and works to satisfy any questions or complaints regarding financial and insurance-related matters, including disaster preparation and insurance fraud, as well as auto, home, health, life and small business insurance. Since July 1, 2017, the helpline's insurance specialists answered 171,562 calls and opened more than 13,000 assistance requests. Nearly $23.4 million has been recovered on behalf of 2,761 consumers.

Floridians can contact the insurance consumer helpline toll-free by calling 1-877-MY-FL-CFO (1-877-693-5236) or by visiting www.myfloridacfo.com/division/consumers.