Seniors and the Disabled

You and your caregivers should be ready for natural disasters or acts of terrorism that may affect your ability to survive. Local government agencies and the American Red Cross will respond to disasters, but it may take time to reach everyone. That's why it's so important that you be ready if an emergency occurs.

You can take action now so that you are more prepared for an emergency where you live.  The American Red Cross and the Department of Homeland Security recommend that seniors and the disabled create a personal support network, have an emergency plan, and make lists of emergency and medical information in case you are unable to make your needs known to other persons. 

Social Security Checks During a Disaster

The N.C. Division of Emergency Management recommends that seniors and the disabled use Direct Deposit for their social security checks.  

If disaster strikes and you were evacuated, or roads were impassable and you couldn't drive, your Social Security payment would be automatically deposited into your banking account. 

The Direct Deposit method is safer than a paper check, and saves you a trip to the bank every month.   If you are on Social Security and would like to use Direct Deposit, it doesn't take long to sign up.  Just call (800) 333-1795, or go to http://www.godirect.org/. 

« this page last modified 05/25/07 »