When any type of natural disaster approaches most citizens know how to prepare for the event. Get supplies, make copies of all important documents, prepare your home, and have an evacuation plan ready just in case. Now that you’re ready for the storm, do you know how to deal with everything after the storm?
If you did not take out cash before the storm and your bank or credit union happens to be open, get cash immediately as any businesses who suffered from power outages may only accept cash. Check your accounts as well to make sure your balances are correct and no glitches occurred.
Depending on how bad the disaster is you’re likely to be out of work for a few days so again you’ll want to make sure you have enough funds to get you through your time off. This is yet another reason why an emergency fund is important!
Contact your insurance companies if your car or home suffered damage, phone lines permitting. Hopefully you checked your insurance policies ahead of time, if you did, contact your insurance companies as soon as you can about the damage. Document the damage as well with photographs. Write down what was damaged or destroyed including specifics like cost, brand, and model; if you have receipts for the damaged items have those handy.
If you don’t have insurance and your home or vehicle is damaged beware of getting scammed. According to the Better Business Bureau there are “storm chasers” who often show up to neighborhoods affected by natural disasters looking to make big bucks. These scammers might show up announced at your door or travel in an unmarked truck. Research whomever you’re thinking about doing business with by going through the Home Builders Association or Better Business Bureau. If they check out you’ll still want to read the contract and fine print before providing the deposit and paying for the work. Avoid paying everything up front and in cash as well, you want to have documentation should something go awry.
Contact your creditors and lenders if you did not do so before the storm. Hopefully you made sure your bills were up to date during your preparations. If you did not, contact all your lenders as soon as possible to either get your payments up to date or to discuss financial hardships you might incur that will stall your payments. Getting your finances in order could help you protect your credit during this difficult time.
The Takeaway
Most importantly everyone should stay safe after the storm and know what rules and regulations are being set forth by your local government. Contact your insurance companies if need be and your lenders if you have not done so already. If you’re in need of home repairs, AmONE can help you find the financing you need. A personal loan could be an option if you need to cover repair costs, contact AmONE today to discover what financial solutions may be right for you after the storm.
