Keeping Cash for Emergencies

Having cash available in times of disaster might mean the difference between survival and crisis. Access to ATMs and banks can be limited during times of natural emergencies. Roads may be closed off, electricity shut off, and supplies limited. In cases of evacuation, cash will be preferred over check and if electricity outages are widespread, debit and credit cards are useless. It’s not hard to imagine what might happen in an economic collapse and how access to cash would help.

When keeping money on hand in case of a major world catastrophe or economic collapse, it’s best to keep smaller bills – nothing larger than a $20. It will be nearly impossible to get change, so you want to be able to pay outright for any item. Do not keep all of the bills in one location, but spread them in different locations. Keep some in the car. Store some in your emergency preparedness kit. Keep a stack of bills in a zip-top bag and secure it inside the tank of your toilet. Hide them wherever you think they’d be secure and hidden from potential burglars. It may also be a wise choice to let other family members and older children know where the money is placed. This will be helpful if something happens to you and they are left on their own without help.

Consider purchasing a fire-proof box to keep important papers, such as a copy of the fronts and backs of your credit cards, copy of the driver’s licenses of all adults in the household, list of the family’s doctors with their contact information, and a list of all medications taken along with the strength of each. Keep all important documents here as well, such as insurance policies.

Overall, you should consider storing cash needed for at least three days. This could be a lifesaver in circumstances that cause you to be unable to access your bank. If you don’t have this much immediately available, then consider taking a set amount each week to put aside for such a purpose. In an emergency, you’ll be happy you have on hand any amount of money for immediate use.

How much money does your family use in three days? Include cash for the following:

· Three days of gross income, in case you can’t get paid time off.

· One tank of gas.

· Hotel room for three days. Prices may be increased in times of emergency. Would you want a hotel with a kitchen or will you eat out? Adjust the price accordingly.

· If you don’t already have a 72-hour kit for emergencies, make one. Otherwise, include enough cash to buy clothing for each family member. Remember that you may need to purchase coats and outerwear if tragedy strikes in the winter time.

· Food for the entire household for three days. You may choose the convenience of fast food, but if you don’t, you will have to purchase utensils unless you have included them in your 72-hour kit.

· Toiletries, unless they’re in your 72-hour kit.

Following Jason Hartman’s advice to borrow funds using a long-term, fixed rate loan will ensure that you have the cash you need when you need it. Use the money to purchase commodities which will be useful in times of need, and as long as inflation is high, your investment will be worth it. (Top image: Flickr | stevendepolo)

The Holistic Survival Team