Recovering after a hurricane, wildfire, or other emergency is hard enough without debt making things worse. If you’ve lost income, housing, or access to services, your financial situation may feel overwhelming. This guide will help you take control, step-by-step, using trusted resources and support to navigate recovery from a natural disaster.
Federal and state programs offer a range of disaster assistance. Visit DisasterAssistance.gov to apply for:
Don’t wait; some programs close their applications quickly. Nonprofits like Credit.org also offer free planning tools and debt support to guide you through recovery.
Let your creditors know you’ve been affected. If your bills are overdue, call or write to explain. Most credit card companies offer hardship plans. Ask for:
Document everything. Keep track of who you spoke to, what they said, and when. Include FEMA paperwork or official letters to strengthen your case.
Billing delays during a disaster can lead to missed or inaccurate reports. Get your credit reports from all three bureaus. If you find mistakes:
You can learn how to add a statement that explains the disaster and its impact. Information like this helps future lenders understand what happened.
Try not to rely on credit cards during recovery. Instead, use debit cards, prepaid apps, or cash to control spending. If you must use credit, make a plan to pay it off quickly. Budgeting tools and mobile apps can help you stay on track and avoid building new debt.
-min.webp)
You’ll need documentation for insurance, FEMA, or your creditors. Save:
Keep these records in a secure folder on your device, and back them up in the cloud. You’ll need to respond quickly if a lender asks for proof.
Scammers target disaster victims. Before entering personal details, confirm the website is legit:
Many official sites also include a DHS logo or agency banner. These visual cues help you avoid fraud.
Sites that display a world globe often provide resources in multiple languages. This symbol guides people to access emergency information in the language they need. It’s especially helpful for multilingual households seeking disaster relief or financial tools.
Search official directories like Ready.gov, USA.gov, or your local city website to find:
Search using keywords like “disaster recovery services near me” to see what your city or county provides.
September is National Preparedness Month, a time to prepare your home for emergencies before they happen. The campaign provides tools and checklists to guide families to build kits, plan evacuations, and stay connected during a crisis. The EPA and National Safety Council also offer tips and services to protect your health, safety, and finances when disasters strike. This is the perfect time to update your emergency contacts and test your communication plan.
Every household should have a preparedness plan. That includes knowing how to get assistance, where to go, and what to bring. Think about your family’s needs:
Use Credit.org’s Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Guide to get started. Prioritizing preparedness now protects your home, your finances, and your peace of mind later.
Some accounts may no longer serve you after a disaster. If a credit card has high fees or causes stress, it may be time to close it. But weigh the decision carefully; this can impact your credit score. A counselor can help you figure out what will work best for your situation.
Even after the storm passes, recovery takes time. Repairs, delayed income, or medical expenses may come up later. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed. Give yourself space to rest, plan, and move forward at your own pace.
Use phone reminders, spreadsheets, or apps to keep track of:
Good management tools help reduce stress and allow you to stay focused on what matters most.
If you’re struggling financially after a natural disaster, you’re not alone. Credit.org’s Disaster Recovery Services offer one-on-one counseling to help you create a recovery plan that fits your situation. You’ll also find trusted resources, helpful tips, and expert guidance to support your financial recovery. Whether you need assistance with managing bills, rebuilding your credit, or just knowing where to start, we’re here for you.
