Whether it's a killer hurricane, an overflowing river, a freak forest fire or the terror of a tornado, your first thoughts in a crisis are to protect yourself and your family. But natural disasters can turn into financial disasters, too, so it pays to know how to protect your wallet -- before, during and after.

What to grab in an emergency: In a hurricane, fire or other disaster, could you find your most important personal papers?
Plus: Record to keep and how long to keep them
And: What businesses need to keep
By Andrea Terry

Helping homeowners rebuild: Lenders, government and insurance agencies mobilize to help disaster victims rebuild -- or keep -- their homes
By Michael D. Larson

Disaster victims won't lose homes: Fannie Mae and the FEMA make sure storm victims don't lose their homes if they can't make mortgage payments
By Daniel P. Ray

An ounce of prevention: New low-cost loans protect your home -- and wallet -- from disaster
By Michael D. Larson

Mother Nature's wrath: Be prepared with disaster insurance for your home
Plus: Details on hurricane, earthquake and flood insurance
By Michael D. Larson

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