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Dealing with disasters and emergencies

A guide to handling your finances if you are preparing for, recovering from, or rebuilding after a hurricane, tornado, wildfire or other emergency.

This guide focuses on your finances

If you need information on your physical safety before, during, and after an emergency, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) ready.gov site.

Prepare your finances before a disaster or emergency strikes

Watch the video

Natural disasters can happen anywhere. Here are three steps you can take right now to protect yourself financially and weather any storm.

Plan for the unexpected

Taking time to document financial information and contact numbers before a situation occurs can save you time and stress in an emergency.

Resources to help you get started

Protect your finances during and after a disaster or emergency

Video screenshot that reads "how to recover financially from a natural disaster"

When disaster strikes, it can be hard to know how to move forward. Here are steps to take to recover financially after a natural disaster.

Focus on your most urgent issues

If you can’t access your money or pay your bills after a disaster, you’ll want to contact lenders, creditors, and banks to let them know your situation. You’ll also want to consider finding places that provide financial assistance.

Help managing money in an emergency

Know your rights

You have the right to ask for help with bills, fees, paperwork, and more

Customer service workers at your bank, credit card company, or other lender might be able to offer you flexibility if you need it.

You have the right to ask for help with your home loan

There are ways you can work with your mortgage lender to give you more flexibility with loans or payment relief options.

Recover and rebuild after a disaster or emergency

Helping others rebuild and recover

If you’re sending money to loved ones or an organization providing direct support, you’ll want to ensure it’s making a difference and getting into the right hands.

Avoiding fraud and scams

In the wake of a disaster or emergency, you’ll have a lot on your plate. To protect yourself from more financial distress, be on the lookout for fraud and scams.

How to avoid scams in the wake of a disaster