Threads drift.

But now that I think about it, I'm not really sure how much redundancy I really have. I have no idea where the actual computers are that store my account information. Since they're both credit unions, even though they have no relation to each other, maybe my stuff's on the same server somewhere.

Even national "chain" banks... how much redundancy do they have? It's nice they have a disaster recovery plan. But if they're down any time at all, that'll be the exact moment I'm trying to get cash. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I think we're mostly following up with, "It's good to be decentralized, but cash is still king."

National Banks would be recommended for accessibility issues.

I would think, with all of the deserved (and some over-reacting and power grabbing) need for protection from terrorism, and the existing FDIC program, there are extensive requirements on data security and integrity in the banking system. I highly doubt that you're account would just "disappear". Yes, it could be possible that a number of hours of banking history could disappear (it would probably be recovered anyway), but if you're like most people, you're withdrawls exceed your deposits. The bank is more likely to lose money, rather than you losing moeny. Payroll checks cannot be held, so they post immediately. If you deposit other checks, you'll want to make sure they post a few days in advance of any forseen catastrophe. Once it is on your account, you can be pretty sure that the transaction is recorded, and permanent.

If you're not convinced of this, and you still think that money could be lost, here are some suggestions:

1) Open another bank acount at a larger bank. By doing this, I can transfer any "excess" from my normal account to this bank. Yes, there may be a charge, but in the FedWire system(if used, not sure), there will be a transaction with the source and destination account numbers. This transaction will be backed up with 3 different entities (source, FedWire, destination). You also ensure that you have more banks to go and get your money from, without incurring too many charges (well, unless you're like First Union and charge $7 to talk to a teller, if they still do that...). Also, you can get wire transfers from your account, from other banks. Make sure your I.D. matches your mailing address!

2) Make sure you have online access to all of your banking accounts. This allows you to transfer money online for anywhere. Yes, your local bank wouldn't be open after a major event, but if it's predictable, or you have a regular plan, you would have done a wire transfer before hand. Internet access is available at nearly all libraries now.

3) Maybe travelers checks. They're pretty much guaranteed. However, if you're a merchant, I'm not sure how you know if they're not "stolen". i.e. user claims they're stolen, when in fact they used them. A bad thing in a disaster area, as there may not be enough resources to follow up. They also provide a CC/Debit/ATM style card that is it's own unique account number. This could be a useful way for you to have money if you're relocated like people were in New Orleans. (i.e. it's a "national" bank)

4) Horde cash in small bills. Cash is the only universally accepted form of payment in a disaster area. Save $200 in cash. More emphasis on smaller bills, than bigger ones. It's easier to give someone $4 for something that cost $3.75 and lose the $0.25, if necessary. You'll have to figure out how to keep yourself safe with all that money though.


There is no way I can think of, except by hoarding cash, to ensure a supply of money for more than 7 days in a disaster area. Most of your essential needs will be provided by relief agencies, until services are restored. Plus, if they a big problem bringing in essential supplies to some areas, is money really going to be a big deal? If you've done all the above $200 can probably get you pretty far with an average decent person. You know, the one that will actually take you to your destination, and not just drop your butt off the side of the road and leaves with your $200. That's a topic for another thread...

That 5 grand has taken me 3 years to squirrel away, the hard way. From collecting soda cans, umpiring adult softball, cashing in hoarded change and stashing any cash I could. It is a HUGE stress reducer knowing it sits waiting for TSHTF. The tough part is keeping my 16 year old daughter from weaseling some extra $ from me. " But Daddy, please!"

Actually, wouldn't the credit card company backing your debit card (if you have one) have this stuff squirreled away, at least account numbers and the like, just so they can tap your account?

If you work for a multinational/multistate corporation, and do direct deposit, the home office HR weenies will have it.

The IRS has it. So does the FDIC. I've been wondering why the FDIC seems to be having a hard time picking up the ball on this, but maybe they are just as preparred as all the other federal emergency relief offices.

That being said, I keep a little cash and two checks in my wallet, in the back, and never touch it. Ever. One check can determine an account number and the bank that issued it, just off the tracking numbers along the bottom. Two of those and photo ID, and no hesitation when you babble your SSN would suggest to me you are who you say.

For those who have no ID, they are tanked unless they can find someone, somewhere, who will float them a personal loan and vouch to them. Which means going to a relative who likes you (uh-oh) and isn't effected. Which means leaving the area.

You can always keep a deposit slip instead. Just in case it gets stolen, no one can get money from your account.

I am new to the forum but would like to say although I do not agree with some postings, I have picked up some excellent ideas off of here. I did the same with a military credit union when I went in long ago and still have the account. It is excellent for moving my funds. Any time I relocate I can transfer the funds from my local account to the CU in minutes and when I get to where I am going open a checking account there by writing a check or transfer and have a functioning local account in minutes. Also, I had an account with BofA International which is a seperate branch. I could go to any BofA branch or associate bank in about any city of the world and write a check for cash. Also, transfers were simple. I had everything but what I had on me stolen in upland Thailand. I had enough to get to Bangkok to get a money transfer and replacement passport. My trip was delayed about one day. Others in the party spent up to a week getting funds transfered from regular banking. Other banks offer the same services if you have need of it--works great for a vacation out of the country as well as an emergency.

Just found out it doesn't take a natural disaster...

Pulled up to the ATM, tried to get some cash. Machine ate my card! "Card has expired. Card will be retained. Thank you." WTF? It's already after hours, so I can't call until the next morning. Yes, the card had expired, and the replacement had (according to their records) been mailed over a month ago. I never received it. Or the PIN. We're sorry... we'll get a new one out to you "right away".

Since last year's hurricanes, I've kept a bit of cash at home for emergencies, so this was no big deal. And, like gas, I try to go by an ATM before I run out. And I have credit cards. And it was still a little spooky.

Just a thought about the cash on hand: should you record the serial numbers and denominations in case the money is lost in a fire or something. It would be helpful when getting the money replaced. or maybe home owners insurance would help.

I hadn't thought of that. I wonder what the procedure is for replacing currency?

I'd get a fire safe, but a recent thread on here makes me wonder if one I'd be likely to buy (because of cost) would do me much good.

To replace money I do believe you need both serial numbers showing on whats left of the currency.