Preparing Your Finances for an Unanticipated Disaster: A Practical Guide to Financial Readiness

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. Whether it’s a sudden job loss, a medical emergency, a natural disaster, or even a cyberattack, unanticipated events can disrupt your life—and your finances—when you least expect it.

While we can’t predict the future, we can take steps to prepare for it. At Casey State Bank, we believe in empowering our community with the tools and knowledge to weather life’s storms. Here are seven proactive strategies to help you prepare your finances for the unexpected.

1. Build an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund is your first line of defense in a crisis. It provides a financial cushion that can help cover essential expenses—like housing, food, and healthcare—without relying on credit cards or loans.

Start small and stay consistent. Even setting aside $25 a week can make a difference over time. Aim to build up enough savings to cover 3–6 months of living expenses.

Helpful Tip: Open a dedicated Statement Savings Account or a Money Market Account at Casey State Bank to separate your emergency funds from everyday spending—and earn interest while you save.

2. Use a Safe Deposit Box for Irreplaceable Items

Certain documents and valuables are best kept in a location that’s both secure and disaster-resistant.

Consider storing these in a safe deposit box:

• Birth certificates and Social Security cards
• Property deeds and titles
• Insurance policies
• Legal documents (wills, POA, trusts)
• Backup USB drives with family photos or tax records

Available at Casey State Bank: Ask us about our safe deposit box availability to keep your most important items protected in a secure, off-site location.

3. Review and Update Insurance Coverage

Insurance can be a financial lifesaver in the face of disaster—but only if your coverage meets your current needs.

Take time to review your:

• Health insurance
• Homeowners or renters insurance
• Auto insurance
• Life insurance

If you live in an area that is prone to flooding or storms, consider supplemental policies that cover those specific risks.

4. Create a Disaster-Proof Budget

An emergency often comes with unexpected costs—and possible changes in income.

Start now by:

• Identifying essential vs. non-essential expenses
• Creating a “disaster budget” that focuses on necessities
• Knowing which bills and subscriptions you could pause or reduce if needed

This type of planning helps ensure you’ll be able to stretch your resources during difficult times.

5. Set Up Digital Banking Tools

When access to your physical bank branch is disrupted—due to weather, power outages, or travel limitations—digital tools become essential.

With Casey State Bank’s Online and Mobile Banking, you can:

• Check balances and recent transactions
• Transfer funds between accounts
• Pay bills automatically
• Deposit checks remotely

Pro Tip: Set up direct deposit and automatic payments to avoid late fees, even when life is hectic.

6. Protect Against Fraud and Scams

Unfortunately, scammers often take advantage of disasters to trick unsuspecting individuals.

Stay alert to:

• Phishing emails and texts claiming to be from government agencies or charities
• Unsolicited phone calls asking for donations or personal information
• Fake disaster relief funds or insurance offers

Monitor your accounts regularly and report suspicious activity immediately. Casey State Bank customers can also set up account alerts for extra peace of mind.

7. Establish a Communication and Access Plan

Make sure at least one trusted person can access your important financial accounts in an emergency.

This might include:

• Setting up a power of attorney
• Adding a joint account holder or beneficiary
• Creating a document with account details, stored securely

This preparation ensures your family can take action on your behalf if you’re temporarily unable to manage your finances yourself.

Final Thoughts

Emergencies are unpredictable, but financial preparedness puts you in a stronger position to respond, recover, and rebuild.

At Casey State Bank, we’re committed to being your reliable partner—through good times and uncertain ones. Whether you need help starting an emergency fund, reviewing your accounts, or setting up digital tools, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Let’s prepare together.

Visit your local Casey State Bank branch, contact us, or explore our online banking tools to get started on your financial readiness plan today. For more tips on financial preparedness, visit the FDIC’s guide: Preparing Your Finances for an Unanticipated Disaster.