How to replace lost documents
By Dana Dratch • Bankrate.com

In a hurricane, paperwork is the last thing on your mind.

And when you start putting your life back together, you'll probably be missing some or all of your records. But the paperwork can be replaced.

Here's a rundown on where to go for some of the things you might need.

Property insurance records
You'll probably be filing an insurance claim. The good news is you shouldn't need much in the way of paper. "It's ironic, but in some ways, it will be easier for these people to deal with their insurers than if it were a routine circumstance," says Howard Mills, superintendent of the New York State Insurance Department, and member of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Adjusters "won't expect them to have any documents," he says.

The first step, if you can, is to contact your agent. If that's not possible, call the insurance company itself. For a directory of toll-free phone numbers for insurers, see: www.disasterinformation.org/findins.htm

You shouldn't need much in the way of old records to put in a claim. If you're not dealing with your own agent, the company rep will ask you a couple of questions, "like Social Security number, birth date or mother's maiden name," to make sure you are who you say you are, says Carolyn Gorman, vice president of the Insurance Information Institute, an industry association. Then they'll get you the forms you need to detail what you've lost.

One plus: If you have comprehensive coverage with your auto insurance, it should cover flood damage of your car, she says.

If you have trouble reaching your company or problems with filing a claim, call your state insurance department, says Mills.

The numbers are:

• Louisiana: (225) 342-5900
• Mississippi: (601) 359-3569
• Alabama: (334) 269-3550

Medical records
Ideally, your doctor's office is the best source. But if it isn't open, your health-insurance company might be able to help. Ditto if you need an insurance card or something showing you have regular prescription needs.

In addition, some pharmacies keep records on shared computers. If you use a pharmacy chain, they may be able to access your records in another location. Be sure to update and verify that they have the latest information when it comes to all the drugs and supplements you're taking, the dosages, and any sensitivities or allergies you might have.

Your car
Where you go to replace the paperwork on your car depends on who really owns it. If you're still paying on a loan, the lender has the title. (And if you need your car's vehicle identification number or VIN, your lender and insurance company are two good sources.)

If you paid off the car, had the title and lost it, then you need to contact the state motor vehicle department. They'll need the car's VIN, or failing that, a plate number and description, says Tom Lawler, director of Mississippi's title bureau. Also, they'll need to know in whose name the car was titled.

Some information to get you started:

• Louisiana: Online at www.expresslane.org (can also check on registration information.)
• Mississippi: Contact the auto title office at: (601) 923-7200 or visit online at www.mstc.state.ms.us (Click on "title.") You can also e-mail Lawler directly at: tlawler@mstc.state.ms.us.
• Alabama: If you need a duplicate driver's license or ID card because of Katrina and you're from Alabama or have relocated to Alabama, you can call: (866) 283-2838; or visit: http://www.dps.state.al.us/public/misc/katrina/.

If you're worried about getting the title to report a total loss to your insurance, you may be able to let the adjuster handle it. Your insurance company should already have your car's vehicle identification number.