It is tough to comprehend how you recover from a disaster like yesterday’s storm damage in Hugo. Natural disasters like this are reminders of how we all should be better prepared.
I’ve mentioned this site before but thought it was worth another look. What Happens Now was created by a Twin Cities woman to help people get through all kinds of life changing events.
There is an entire section on tornadoes including information on how to apply for financial assistance.
Go here if you need help on how to file a claim with your insurance company. If your home has been damaged you may not be able to find your important papers. You can call either of these two numbers to get the contact information for any insurance company: (800) 555-1212 or (877) 999-6442.
Then remember to keep track of your expenses. One way to do that is to designate one credit card to those items. Then be sure to keep all of your receipts for the following items:
*Building contractors
*Cell phone, pager or other method of communication
*Child care or other care providers
*Cleaning services (clothes and house)
*Clothing, personal items (medications, toiletries)
*Food (purchased from store and from restaurant)
*Hotels or other temporary living expenses
*Mailbox rental (if mail needs to be redirected or forwarded)
*Pet supplies, boarding costs or pet care providers (for onsite care)
*Security services (to prevent looting)
*Storage rental unit for possessions or vehicles
*Temporary business relocation costs (if business was home-based) including answering service and other expenses.
Since this is severe weather season this is a reminder to all of us how important it is to keep a home and property inventory. There are some great examples of how to make one here. You can also download this home inventory list from the Insurance Information Institute free.
