Hail Loss Claims Closing Date Approaching

Public Information Specialist/Special Projects Helena, Mont. – After record hail crop damage and claims last year, the 2014 season has been below average in reported damage so far this year. The last day for producers with state hail insurance to file a hail loss claim is October 1, 2014.

“This year has been fairly quiet compared to last year. We’ve had a few events around the state, but to date we are below average. The department wants to remind producers that if they experienced any hail damage and have coverage through the state, they should get their claim in as soon as possible,” said Walt Anseth, Rural Development Section Supervisor with the Montana Department of Agriculture.

As of September 1 with the possibility of more hail this season, there have been 321 claims filed with the department, down from 1,046 last year. Average losses for the state hail insurance program the last ten years total 539 claims with a 74% loss ratio, while this year’s loss ratio to date is 45%.

“It’s important for producers to remember that it is not the responsibility of your private carrier to inform the department of their hail loss. Hail loss claims need to be filed with the department by October 1, 2014,” said Anseth.

Claim forms are available at http://www.hail.mt.gov or by calling (406) 444-2402 or toll free at (844) 515-1571 to talk to a representative. If producers have already submitted a loss claim, the claim has been or will be processed soon.

The Montana State Hail Insurance Program was created in 1917 to provide basic hail insurance coverage on any crop grown in Montana. The program is directed by a five-member board consisting of the department director, insurance commissioner, and three other members appointed by the Governor.

The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the department, visit http://www.agr.mt.gov.