Policyholders recovering from Hurricane Helene’s devastation have received more than $1.4 billion in flood insurance payments, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Over 56,000 claims have been filed so far, with most originating in Florida.

FEMA estimates that total claims for the storm could reach between $3.5 billion and $7 billion, but these figures remain subject to change as recovery efforts continue.

Of the payments already issued, over $520 million has been distributed as advance payments. These allow policyholders to receive up to $20,000 before an insurance adjuster’s visit, helping them start critical repairs and recovery sooner.

“I am deeply committed to helping our policyholders prioritize financial resources to help speed their recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Helene’s destruction,” said Jeff Jackson, interim senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “By extending the grace period for renewing policies, we are giving our policyholders some breathing room and demonstrating that the NFIP stands with them at a time of tremendous heartache and difficulty.”

To support recovery, FEMA has extended the standard 30-day grace period for policy renewals in seven affected states. Florida residents now have until Dec. 10, 2024, due to additional disruptions from Hurricane Milton. Policyholders in other states, including Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, have until Nov. 26, 2024, to renew their policies.

FEMA is urging policyholders to contact their agents or insurance companies promptly to take advantage of these extensions. Those who need help finding their insurance contact information can call 877-336-2627 for assistance.

For information on filing a flood insurance claim, visit floodsmart.gov.