FEMA launches online flood insurance tool

FRANKFORT — It is now easier for Kentucky residents to prepare for the devastating financial consequences of flooding, as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has launched a new tool to purchase a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy completely online through Floodsmart.gov.

The tool is accessible nationwide, with the online purchase option available to anyone living in one of the almost 22,700 participating NFIP communities.

"I've seen firsthand how floodwaters devastate American communities," said FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton. "We are making it easier for people to reduce their financial risk and protect what they've spent their lives building. With this new digital tool, you can get a quote and buy a flood insurance policy in a matter of minutes. This innovation demonstrates how FEMA is working to cut bureaucracy and deliver results to the American people."

Through the National Flood Insurance Program's new self-service digital purchase option, FEMA is reducing barriers and making flood insurance more accessible to people nationwide. You can get a quote on Floodsmart.gov after providing basic information about your building. Once you receive your quote, you will have the option to purchase a policy online or through an insurance agent. If you choose to purchase online, you can do so on Floodsmart.gov in just a few minutes. If you choose to purchase through a local or national carrier, you can share your quote details with your insurance agent, or Floodsmart.gov will offer the contact information of three licensed state insurance agents.

The new self-service tool is consistent with the insurance industry's shift toward digital engagement and aims to make it easier for more Americans to access flood coverage.

Floods are the most common and costliest natural disaster in the United States. Flood insurance provides financial protection against the unexpected to help Americans be better prepared, self-sufficient and confident in their ability to safeguard their future. FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program provides about $3.3 billion in coverage for approximately 16,900 policyholders in Kentucky.

To find out more information about flood insurance, get a quote and purchase a policy, you can go to www.floodsmart.gov/policy-quote.

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