September is National Preparedness Month

Natural disasters can strike unexpectedly, causing disruptions and challenges. Planning ahead, including financial preparedness, can ease recovery. Key steps include:

· Check Insurance: Understand coverage details.

· Organize Important Papers: Keep insurance policies, financial accounts, ownership records, and identification documents accessible.

· Conduct a Household Inventory: Document possessions with photos for insurance claims.

Be cautious of scams after a weather disaster:

· Research contractors before hiring; seek recommendations and search online using “scam” and “complaint.”

· Beware of unusually low prices and avoid links in ads, emails, or texts.

· Get a contract and all promises in writing.

· Avoid any company requesting payment in cash, gift cards, wire transfer, payment apps, or cryptocurrency.

· Use credit cards for payments and only pay in full after work completion.

The Federal Trade Commission offers an abundance of valuable information for dealing with weather emergencies at https://consumer.ftc.gov/features/dealing-weather-emergencies.

Also, know that IFCU offers disaster relief loans for individuals as well as faith organizations. Learn more at https://interfaithfcu.org/loan-promotions.