Dealing with disasters and emergencies

Mobile payment services and apps let you send money to people without having to write a check, swipe a card, or hand them cash. Always use caution when sending money to someone you don’t know. When sending money electronically, including through your mobile device, keep these tips in mind.

Start with a request for payment. Before sending money to someone for the first time, ask them to send a "request" from their app.

Double-check before you press send. Verify the amount you entered and the person you selected to pay. Review other identification elements, like phone numbers or other data points shown.

Know how quickly money comes out of your account. Most payments are deducted from your balance immediately. But depending on the electronic service and who you’re sending money to, the recipient might not be able to use the money immediately. Find out how soon the transferred money is made available, and decide if that timing works for you.

Protect your mobile device. Most mobile payment services allow you to set up a passcode, PIN, or fingerprint to authenticate yourself – in addition to setting a password or identity protection on your mobile device. If your mobile phone is lost or stolen, notify your bank or payment provider.

Contact your bank or payment provider if you suspect an error. Go over your statements and notify your financial institution about transactions you don’t recognize right away.

You can submit a complaint about a problem with a financial product or service, including problems with a mobile payment app, at consumerfinance.gov/complaint or by calling (855) 411-CFPB (2372).

Many businesses that send money transfers to other countries must follow federal consumer protection laws, as well as state laws. Review the rules that apply to money transfers and how to resolve problems if something goes wrong.

Know your rights when you send money overseas (Español | 中文 | Tiếng Việt | 한국어 | Tagalog | Pусский | العربية | Kreyòl Ayisyen)

Scammers use natural disasters and emergencies as opportunities to prey on your instincts to help others. A common scam during a natural disaster is a charity scam, where a fake organization is created to con people into donating money. If you’re contributing to a disaster relief effort, here are a few tips to ensure your money is getting to the right organization.

Beware of unsolicited asks for your personal or financial information, like phone calls or emails asking for payment on a donation pledge you don’t remember making.

Look up charity organizations through a trusted third-party source, such as guidestar.org , give.org , charitynavigator.org , or your local Better Business Bureau .

If you don’t feel comfortable, don’t contribute.

Report crimes, scams, and financial abuse to your local law enforcement’s nonemergency number, your state attorney general or the Federal Trade Commission .

Read further about scams and fraud

Gifts, loans, and in-kind support can help loved ones make ends meet in an emergency. Family and friends sometimes exchange funds directly (for example, providing cash) or indirectly (for example, cosigning a loan). Without clear communication, these arrangements could put a strain on your relationships. It’s important to have a frank conversation and come up with an arrangement that works for everyone involved.

Review our tips and worksheet on managing lending and borrowing among family and friends