Hurricane season starts June 1st. It’s time to start thinking about how you can protect your finances in the event of a hurricane. Here are some tips to get you started:

Make a copy of your important documents

This includes your birth certificate, Social Security card, insurance policies, and other important paperwork. Store the copies in a safe place, such as a safety deposit box or a cloud storage service. This way, if your home is damaged or destroyed, you’ll still have access to these important documents.

Set up a digital banking account

Digital banking allows you to access and manage your finances from anywhere, even if you can’t get to a bank or ATM during a hurricane. You can check your account balances, transfer funds, pay bills, and deposit checks using your smartphone. Sign up here.

Withdrawal cash before the storm hits

Power outages and network issues can make it difficult to access cash during and after a hurricane. It is a good idea to withdraw enough cash to cover your expenses for a few days before the storm. Keep the cash in a secure location, such as a safe or a lockbox.

Set up a savings account for emergency expenses

This will help you cover costs associated with a hurricane, such as lost wages, damage to your home or car, and food and water. It’s easy to save with our EvenUp Savings account, which rounds up your purchases to the nearest dollar, and transfers it automatically to your savings account. Out of site, out of mind… until you need it.

Review your insurance policies

Make sure you have adequate coverage for your home, car, and other belongings. You may want to consider increasing your coverage limits, especially if you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes. First Commerce offers insurance services through TruStage® with personalized service to protect you and your loved ones. Learn more.

By following these tips, you can help protect your finances in the event of a hurricane. Remember, hurricane season is a long one, so it’s important to be prepared.