News

USAA Responds to Hurricane Gustav -- Sept. 3, 2008

SAN ANTONIO-(Business Wire)-September 3, 2008 - USAA has initiated a broad range of efforts designed to help our members.

1. USAA Team Jumps in to Action to Help Members Recover

A team of 350 catastrophe adjusters and support personnel are headed to areas affected by Hurricane Gustav. The company’s catastrophe headquarters are planned for Baton Rouge, La. and two satellite offices in Lake Charles, La. and Mobile, Ala.
USAA teams will be in position just as soon as local officials allow access, most likely Wednesday afternoon. Safety for our members and our employees is a top priority.
USAA’s Catastrophe Response Vehicle will be stationed in Baton Rouge. Members can visit the vehicle to report claims, access bank accounts and interact with USAA employees.
USAA is reaching out to members who reside in the zip codes struck by Gustav. The company is providing details on how to most efficiently file a claim and reminding members about other ways that USAA can help during this difficult time.

2. USAA Claims Status

More than 1,351 claims (1,238 property, 113 auto) have been filed with USAA as of Wednesday.
USAA members can report claims at usaa.com or call 1-800-531-8722.

3. Special Offers to Help Rebuild or Restore After the Storm

USAA is offering products and services designed to help members. Details, including eligibility requirements, are available on usaa.com or by calling 1-800-531-8222.

Automobile & Personal Loans – reduced rates and special payment terms.
Checking & Savings – non-sufficient funds fees temporarily waived, instant credit for deposits en route to the bank, emergency fulfillment of debit cards.
Credit Card Products – 0% APR on purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers made during a specified period, late fees/finance charges waived for 90 days, no payments for up to two months, line-of-credit increases as appropriate, and expedited delivery of new credit cards.
Auto Rental Discounts – special discounts through our USAA partners.
Insurance Products – billing arrangements to accommodate members’ individual needs.
Investment Products – certain mutual fund and brokerage fees waived.
Financial Planning Services – free financial advice.

4. USAA Media Relations Support

USAA media relations will be available to assist reporters by providing access to “ride-alongs” with professional adjusters, interviews, and insider tours of response operations.
Additional media alerts will be issued regularly during the recovery period.

USAA response summary