As hurricane season is underway (June 1st to November 30th), it’s essential to prioritize not only your physical safety but also your financial well-being. Natural disasters like hurricanes and tropical storms can have a devastating impact on your financial stability if you’re unprepared. However, with careful planning and the right strategies, you can mitigate potential risks and protect your financial future. Don’t wait until it’s too late – start preparing today to weather the storm with confidence.

Review Your Insurance Policies

Before a storm strikes, take the time to review your insurance policies. Check if your home, health, or other insurance coverage provides financial assistance for temporary shelter, replacement of belongings, or other essentials in case of extreme weather. Our partners at TruStage Insurance offer a comprehensive range of insurance products, including accidental death & dismemberment insurance, auto, life, and property coverage.** These products can help cover the cost of property or injury in the event of a natural disaster. Having a clear understanding of your coverage will give you peace of mind and help you make informed decisions during challenging times.

Conduct a Household Inventory

Creating a comprehensive household inventory is crucial for assessing potential losses and expediting insurance claims. Make a detailed list of your physical possessions, accompanied by photographs or videos. Include important information such as serial numbers, purchase receipts, and appraisals. Additionally, gather vital documents like Social Security and health insurance cards, prescription lists, and copies of essential financial and family records (deeds, titles, wills, birth and marriage certificates).

Keep Your Documents Safe and Accessible

Organizing and safeguarding your important documents is key to ensuring quick and easy access when needed. Invest in a lockable fireproof file box to store your documents securely. Keep it in a readily accessible place within your home, allowing you to grab it quickly in case of an evacuation or emergency. Remember to include some cash, as ATMs and banks may be inaccessible during emergencies and power outages. To find a First Financial or Co-Op surcharge free ATM location near you, click here. Store an extra set of house and car keys, as well as the key to any safe deposit box you may have.

Leverage Technology

Harness the power of technology to enhance your financial preparedness. At First Financial, we offer a user-friendly mobile app and online banking, which both allow you to access and reference your financial documents from anywhere.* By digitizing your important files and uploading them to a secure platform, you can ensure that even if physical copies are lost or damaged, you can still retrieve them quickly and efficiently.

Stay Informed and Aware

Knowledge is a vital asset when facing the aftermath of a hurricane. Bookmark helpful resources such as your local weather or the FTC, which provides valuable advice on recovery, your rights, and how to identify, avoid, and report scams in times of natural disaster. Staying informed will empower you to make smart decisions and protect yourself and your finances from potential fraud or exploitation.

Preparing for hurricane season goes beyond securing physical safety. Taking steps to ensure your financial readiness is equally crucial. By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to face hurricane season with confidence, knowing that your financial future is protected. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that we are here to support you every step of the way. For more financial advice, read our First Scoop blog!

*You must have an account at First Financial Federal Credit Union (serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties in NJ), and be enrolled in online banking, to use our mobile application. Standard data rates and charges may apply. 

 **TruStage insurance products and programs are made available through TruStage Insurance Agency, LLC. Life insurance and AD&D insurance are issued by CMFG Life Insurance Company. Auto and home insurance are issued by leading insurance companies. The insurance offered is not a deposit, and is not federally insured, sold, or guaranteed by your credit union.