As storms brew and wildfire warnings spread, many are thinking about canned goods and flashlights.

But behind the scenes, a different kind of preparation is just as urgent.

Financial security is often overlooked—until it’s too late.

That’s why new federal guidance is putting the spotlight on one thing: protecting your money before disaster strikes.



The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is urging everyone, especially older adults and retirees, to treat disaster season like a full-spectrum threat.


Yes, safeguarding your roof matters, but so does shielding your retirement savings, tax records, and Social Security details.

The good news? The IRS has outlined practical steps you can take now to avoid unnecessary hardship later.

Why disaster prep isn’t just about batteries and bottled water​

When wild weather hits, you don’t want to be scrambling for your Social Security card or your most recent tax return.

Yet, every year, people find themselves displaced without access to essential records and without the means to rebuild easily.


Hurricane season typically peaks from August to September. Wildfires often spread in the fall.

Floods can hit at just about any time, especially in the spring and summer.

The IRS and FEMA are reminding Americans: financial readiness should be a year-round habit.

IRS tips for protecting your financial future​

1. Safeguard your vital documents

• Use waterproof, fireproof storage: Keep key items like tax returns, Social Security cards, insurance paperwork, and property deeds secure.
• Make digital backups: Scan and store files on a cloud service or encrypted flash drive in case you need them remotely.

2. Document your home’s contents

• Why this matters: Proof of personal belongings is critical for insurance claims and disaster-related tax deductions.
• Helpful tools: Use IRS Publication 584 (for individuals) or Publication 584-B (for businesses) to catalog your items.

3. Double-check financial and payroll services

• Employees are reminded to confirm that their payroll provider carries a fiduciary bond. This can protect your operation in case they’re unable to process payroll during a disaster.

What to expect if disaster hits your area​

If a federally declared disaster affects your region, the IRS often offers relief automatically:

1. Deadline extensions

• No need to apply: If your address is on file and falls within a FEMA-declared zone, you’ll automatically receive extra time to file and pay.
• Example: After Hurricane Helene, impacted taxpayers in several states had until May 1, 2025, to handle most IRS paperwork and payments.

2. Claiming unreimbursed disaster losses

• Who qualifies: If you experience damage or loss that isn’t covered by insurance, you may be able to deduct it from your taxes.
• When to file: You can claim it on your return for the year the disaster occurred, or amend the previous year’s return to get a quicker refund.
• Important step: Don’t forget to include the FEMA disaster declaration number when you file.

3. Special rules for retirement plans

• Easier access: In some cases, you may withdraw or borrow from retirement savings with reduced penalties or extended repayment terms.

4. Not in the disaster zone but still affected?

• If your records or tax preparer’s office was impacted, even if your home wasn’t, call the IRS Disaster Hotline at 866-562-5227. You may still qualify for help.

Read more:

• Are you prepared for tornado season? Discover why DOGE’s latest move might affect you!
• A tax refund is landing in bank accounts—are you eligible?

Have you ever had to rebuild after a storm, fire, or flood? What steps helped you most, or what do you wish you had done differently? Got a system for keeping records safe? Share your tips, questions, and stories in the comments. Your advice could help someone else stay protected this season.