The days, weeks and even months after a storm can be the most daunting for hurricane victims who are trying to get back on their feet. 

FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is working around the clock to process claims to help those impacted by Hurricane Ian. 

FEMA is advising policy holders who were directly impacted by Ian and those who were spared from the storm's devastation. 

Policy holders who evacuated and who have not returned home can start the flood insurance claims process even if they only suspect flood damage. 

They are allowed to file an initial claim and make updates about specific damages at a later time when officials have declared it safe to return to their homes. 

Filing a claim is a long process, but Jeff Jackson, who is the FEMA Deputy Assistant Administrator for Federal Insurance, says they're working to make it as painless as possible. 

"We know it's a historic flood, storm and it's going to be up there with the top storms being experienced," said Jackson. "The focus is on the policy holder in the national flood insurance program on making it as easy as we possibly can to file a flood claim. So, we've been doing things to ensure people are getting $10,000 in advance, extending grace periods — making sure it is easier. We're pulling out all the stops to respond to this historic storm." 

For those living in areas that were not hit by Hurricane Ian, FEMA representatives say those policy holders should use this time to prepare for any upcoming storms. 

They encourage affected residents to set up a family emergency plan, including learning which shelters are in your area and the evacuation routes of your city. 

The FEMA app is a resource available to all to help affected residents stay up-to-date. 

Jackson said that policy holders should make any necessary updates and review their current insurance policies.

"You need to make yourself as prepared as you possibly can be, you need to have a plan to either evacuate or to have supplies to ride out the storm. You need to listen to the advice of your local officials and you need to financially prepare yourself. I think that involves flood insurance, as well as homeowners insurance. For folks who have not looked at a flood insurance policy in a while, let this be your wake up call, he said.

Disaster assistance may include grants to help pay for temporary housing, emergency home repairs for the primary residence.

Help is also available for uninsured and underinsured personal property losses and medical, dental and funeral expenses caused by the disaster, along with other serious disaster-related expenses including loss of income. 

To connect with an insurance agent, or to learn which company you are insured with, call 877-336-2627.