How to file for a Sandy flood claim review: Today's the deadline

Superstorm Sandy victims who think they were cheated out of money have until today to request a review of their flood insurance claims.

Pieces of houses house devastated by Superstorm Sandy lay scattered on the ground November 2, 2012 in Union Beach, New Jersey. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)

"If you feel your Sandy claim was underpaid, I encourage you to call us so we can take another look and we stand ready to take your calls," said Roy Wright, deputy associate administrator for Insurance and Mitigation for the National Flood Insurance Program.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, more than 12,500 policyholders have entered the review process so far.

"FEMA has begun providing funds to policyholders who completed the review and were due additional payments on their claim," Wright said.

The Asbury Park Press reports $7.3 million is expected to by paid out by Sept. 18, with the average payment of $15,994. Not everyone who applies for a review will get money. To date, about 36 percent of cases that have been submitted for review have been denied.

In March, FEMA announced plans to set up a review process in response to the allegations by some homeowners that insurance companies unfairly assessed damage after the October 2012 storm. Insurers have denied any wrongdoing.

In order to request a review, policyholders must have experienced flood damage between Oct. 27, 2012 and Nov. 6, 2012 as a result of Sandy. In addition, policyholders must have had an active NFIP flood policy at the time of the loss.

Policyholders can go online to FEMA's site to download a form requesting a review. The downloaded form can be filled out and emailed to FEMA-sandyclaimsreview@fema.dhs.gov or faxed to 202-646-7970 to begin the review process.

For individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and use 711 or VRS, call 866-337-4262. For individuals using a TTY, call 800-462-7585 to begin the review process. For those who choose to call, the Hurricane Sandy Claims Review Center is open between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m.

Policyholders should be prepared to have as much information as possible, including their 10 digit NFIP policy number and the address of the damaged property. A series of questions will be asked to determine whether a review is warranted. If policyholders qualify for a review, they will be called by an adjuster. On average, reviews take about 90 days to conclude, according to FEMA.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.