Hurricane Season Checklist: Stay Financially Prepared
Hurricane season began June 1. And while the tropics have been relatively quiet this summer, it's always smart to prepare yourself and your finances before a major storm. We’ll look at seven ways to keep your finances in check this hurricane season.
Open an Emergency Savings Account
From evacuation costs to temporary housing or home repairs, storms can leave a financial impact long after the skies clear. That’s why it’s important to stay financially prepared with an emergency savings account. Setting aside funds specifically for the unexpected gives you peace of mind and flexibility when you need it most. As you check off your hurricane preparedness list this season, consider opening an emergency savings account with us. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in protecting your financial future. Be sure to visit a branch near you to open an account.
Enroll in Digital Banking and Download the App
When severe weather strikes, having access to your money anytime, anywhere is essential. Enrolling in digital banking and downloading our mobile app ensures you can manage your finances even during power outages or evacuations. From checking account balances to transferring funds or paying bills, our digital tools keep you connected when it matters most. As you prepare for hurricane season, make sure digital access to your finances is part of your emergency plan. Enroll today and take control—no matter what the storm brings.
Store Documents in a Safe Place
Important documents can easily be damaged by rain and wind. That said, it’s a good idea to store them in a waterproof kit you can grab and go at a moment’s notice. Such kits should include birth certificates, social security cards, passports, and other documents. For an added layer of protection, consider laminating these documents.
Set up direct deposit
In times of uncertainty, getting paid early can make a big difference. When you set up direct deposit with us, you could receive your paycheck up to two days sooner—giving you faster access to the funds you need to stock up on supplies, fuel up, or cover emergency costs. During hurricane season, every day counts, and having early access to your money can help you stay one step ahead. Make direct deposit part of your storm prep and enjoy peace of mind knowing your paycheck is safe, secure, and ready when you need it.
Go Paperless
Switch to eStatements so your important financial documents are always safe, secure, and accessible online—even if you’re away from home or mail delivery is disrupted. It’s one less thing to worry about during or after a storm.
Enroll in Account Alerts
Stay informed instantly. Set up custom account alerts to monitor your balances, deposits, and purchases in real time. During hurricane season, alerts can help you quickly spot suspicious activity or stay on top of your spending—no matter where you are.
Review Insurance
Reviewing your home and car insurance policy before a hurricane strikes ensures you know what your covered losses are. It also allows you time to change your policy if it doesn’t meet your standards. Before a hurricane or other natural disaster, call your insurance company to ensure payments and coverage is up to date. You can also request a paper copy of your policy to keep with your important documents.
The best way to protect your assets during a storm is by preparing yourself before one hits. Although that may seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Stay safe this hurricane season!
Hunter Morrison
About Hunter Morrison
Hunter has freelanced for various print and radio publications across Northwest Florida, including The Bay Beacon, Navarre Press, Inweekly, Crestview News Bulletin, and WUWF. He was also the Editor in Chief of the University of West Florida’s student newspaper, The Voyager. In 2023, Hunter moved to Kenai, Alaska to take up a news reporting position with KDLL Public Radio. For fun, Hunter enjoys cross-country skiing, hiking, photography, thrifting, traveling, and looking for the best Thai food around.