Cash is the only universal backup
ATMs, credit card terminals, mobile payment apps, and online banking all require electricity and network connectivity. During a power outage or network disruption, cash is the only payment method that works. This is not theoretical; it happens during every major storm, earthquake, and infrastructure failure.
Small bills for several days
FEMA recommends keeping enough cash for several days of fuel, food, and basic needs. A practical amount is $200 to $500 in small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20). Small bills matter because vendors during emergencies often cannot make change.
Keep the cash in your emergency kit, not in your wallet. It is reserve money, not spending money.
Quiet, distributed, accessible
Do not advertise that you keep cash at home. Split the reserve between your go-bag and a secure location in the house. The purpose is quiet accessibility during an emergency, not long-term savings.
- Cash is the only payment method that works without electricity
- Keep $200-$500 in small bills ($1, $5, $10, $20)
- Store in emergency kit, not wallet
- Split between go-bag and a secure home location
- Do not advertise cash reserves
- Financial Preparedness — FEMA cash preparedness guidance.