1. Protect Your Important Documents

Replacing important financial and legal documents after a disaster can be time-consuming and stressful. Before hurricane season, gather the documents you would need if you had to leave your home quickly or begin the recovery process.

Consider protecting items such as:

• Birth certificates and Social Security cards
• Passports
• Property deeds and vehicle titles
• Insurance policies
• Wills, trusts, and powers of attorney
• Medical records and prescription information
• Tax records and other important financial documents

Keep physical copies in a waterproof, fire-resistant container, and store secure digital copies where they can be accessed from another location if needed.

Have You Reviewed Your Insurance Recently?

Hurricane season is a good time to review your homeowners, flood, or business insurance and make sure your coverage still reflects your current needs. If you have questions about your policies or aren't sure what's covered, a TRB Insurance agent can review your coverage and help identify potential gaps before severe weather is in the forecast.

Connect with a TRB Insurance Agent

2. Prepare Your Finances Before the Storm

Storms can disrupt more than property—they can interrupt everyday financial routines. A little preparation before hurricane season can help you stay focused on what matters most if severe weather affects your area.

Consider:

• Setting aside emergency savings if possible.
• Keeping a small amount of cash available in case electronic payment systems are temporarily unavailable.
• Reviewing upcoming automatic payments and due dates.
• Keeping contact information for your financial institutions readily available.
• Making a list of important account numbers and emergency contacts.

These small steps can help reduce stress during an already challenging time.

3. Make Sure You Can Access Your Accounts

If you need to evacuate or your community experiences extended power or internet outages, accessing your financial accounts may become more difficult.

Before hurricane season begins:

• Confirm you can log in to your online and mobile banking accounts.
• Update usernames, passwords, or multi-factor authentication methods if needed.
• Download your financial institution’s mobile app if you haven’t already.
• Keep your phone and portable charging devices fully charged when severe weather is expected.
• Consider enrolling in account alerts to stay informed about account activity.

Taking a few minutes to prepare now can make accessing your finances much easier when you need them most.

4. Watch for Fraud After Severe Weather

Unfortunately, fraud often increases after natural disasters. Scammers may pose as contractors, government agencies, charitable organizations, or even financial institutions in an attempt to steal money or personal information.

Be especially cautious of anyone who:

• Demands immediate payment.
• Requests payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
• Offers repairs before providing credentials or references.
• Asks for sensitive financial or personal information unexpectedly.

If something feels rushed or too good to be true, take a moment to verify before responding.

5. Prepare Your Recovery Plan

Preparing financially isn’t just about what happens before a storm—it’s also about knowing what to do afterward.

If your home or business is affected:

• Document damage with photographs before cleanup begins.
• Save receipts for emergency expenses and temporary repairs.
• Contact your insurance provider as soon as it’s safe to do so.
• Notify your financial institution if payment cards are lost or compromised.
• Keep family members informed of your location and recovery plans.

Having a plan can help you move from response to recovery more confidently.

Ready to Prepare for Hurricane Season?

Preparing for hurricane season means more than protecting your property. It also means protecting your finances, important records, and the people who depend on you. Whether you have questions about your banking relationship, your insurance coverage, or preparing for the unexpected, the team at TRB is here to help.

Connect with a TRB Insurance Agent