Exhibit No. 99



FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:  Michael Trevino
          (847) 402-5600

         ALLSTATE EXONERATED BY LOS ANGELES U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
            INVESTIGATION OF NORTHRIDGE EARTHQUAKE CLAIMS ENDED

     NORTHBROOK, Ill., -- February 8, 2001 -- The Allstate Insurance Company
today announced that it has been advised by the Los Angeles United States
Attorney's office that the investigation initiated into Allstate's handling
of claims arising from the 1994 Northridge earthquake in California has
ended.  The office has informed Allstate that it is terminating its
investigation with no charges or action being taken against the company.

     "We are very pleased that, following an extensive review of our conduct,
the government has chosen to take no action involving the company and to
close its file," said Allstate Chairman, President and CEO Edward M. Liddy.

     "We remain committed to providing the best, most effective service for
our policyholders; and we remain proud of our employees who worked valiantly
and compassionately to meet our customers' needs under very trying
circumstances," said Liddy.

     The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation's largest publicly
held personal lines insurer. Widely known through its "You're In Good Hands
With Allstate-Registered Trademark-" slogan, Allstate provides insurance
products to more than 14 million households and has approximately 13,000
exclusive agents in the U.S. and Canada. Customers can access Allstate
products and services through Allstate agents, or in select states at
allstate.com and 1-800-Allstate. Encompass and Deerbrook Insurance brand
property and casualty products are sold exclusively through independent
agents. Allstate Financial Group includes the businesses that provide life
insurance, retirement and investment products.

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