Technology as a New Tool for Hurricane Prep Kit

ATLANTA, May 29, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- In addition to batteries, flashlight and bottled water, residents in hurricane prone states are encouraged to use technology this hurricane season. State Farm Pocket Agent® app can become a crucial tool in their hurricane prep list as they prepare for this hurricane season. The Pocket Agent offers unique mobile insurance and banking features at your fingertips – which can be invaluable following a storm.

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"With a push of a button, customers can access many unique features that will help them start the road to recovery using the State Farm Pocket Agent app," said State Farm Spokesman Roszell Gadson.  "Technology is making it easier to have information at our fingertips after a storm."

Some of the features are accessible only to registered statefarm.com® users, so customers are encouraged to register now before the start of hurricane season. Available for Android and iOS devices (iPhones and iPods), the State Farm Pocket Agent app was recently released on the Kindle Fire platform in March 2013.

The Pocket Agent® app includes many features that would come in handy following a storm:

• Need to submit an auto claim after the storm? Fill out a claims checklist with the push of a button, and check back later for the status of your auto claim. Take and submit pictures using your device camera to record auto damage.
• Can't find your insurance card or policy information? Your auto and homeowners policy information is available at your fingertips.
• Need to get in touch with your agent before or after the storm? Use the app to contact your State Farm agent or find one close-by; add your agent to your contacts or e-mail.
• Did you evacuate and now need mobile access to your banking services? You can check your balance, view your State Farm Bank deposit and credit card transaction history, and even make a deposit to your State Farm Bank® account from anywhere. It's as easy as point-and-shoot - just endorse the check, enter the amount, and take its picture.

For a full list of Pocket Agent app features, visit statefarm.com. 

In addition to registering for the Pocket Agent, residents are reminded that the beginning of hurricane season – which starts June 1st and runs through the end of November – is always a good time for homeowners to consult with their State Farm agent to review their insurance policies for adequate coverage for their home and property.  Homeowners are encouraged to consult with their insurance agent to make sure they have a good understanding of what their policies cover (both home and auto), and the deductibles and exclusions their policies may include. It is always a good idea for homeowners to talk to their insurance agent about appropriate replacement cost coverage, flood insurance, and deductibles. It is important for homeowners to have the right amount of insurance coverage so they can recover and rebuild following a storm.   

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SOURCE State Farm