[lwoodham]

Think of it this way. Suppose you have a home insurance policy. Every year you pay the premiums. It would be wrong of you to file a claim if your home was not really damaged. But if you really had damage, you would not hesitate to file a claim. That's what insurance is for. The same applies here.

I guess you are all correct on this. I was just raised to be independent and to stand on my own, ie. to be a conservative. I suppose that I may not have a choice if nothing materializes soon.

[Leaning Right]

I was just raised to be independent and to stand on my own

I certainly understand that. It's the American way. Or at least it used to be. But please consider this. There are handouts, and then there is insurance. Social security, disability, and unemployment benefits are all forms of insurance. They are NOT handouts. You have paid (mandatory) premiums for all of them over the years.

Would you think less of a neighbor who filed a legitimate insurance claim after his house was damaged in a storm?

Same applies here!