Help Your Finances Weather The Storm

"Knowing how and where to access key financial information after a natural disaster can make things easier during a stressful time," says Susie Irvine, AFSAEF President & CEO.

After taking care of their family, survivors of natural disasters need to take care of their finances. To help consumers with this process, AFSAEF is once again offering "When Natural Disaster Strikes," a brochure highlighting steps to take before and after a natural disaster strikes. The brochure recommends, among other things, to store all important financial papers -- from insurance documents to checking and savings account numbers -- in a waterproof, fireproof safe.

"Providing copies of insurance policies and account numbers to a trusted family member or friend who lives outside of the area can serve as a backup to ensure the accessibility of important financial documents," says Irvine.

The brochure also offers tips on protecting oneself from fraud following a natural disaster and the options many creditors provide customers to help them in their recovery process. -- American Financial Services Association Education Foundation