Hurricane season officially started at the beginning of the month, but they aren’t the only type of disaster that can occur. Taxpayers are encouraged to take steps now to ensure they’re prepared in case they are impacted by a disaster or emergency. 
 
 Review and update emergency preparedness plan annually 
 Taxpayers should review their emergency preparedness plan, at least annually. Ready.gov has resources and checklists to help people put together their emergency preparedness plan. 
 
 Create electronic copies of documents 
 Taxpayers should keep important documents and storage devices in a safe place. If original documents are available only on paper, taxpayers should consider converting them to electronic versions and storing them on a USB flash drive or in the cloud. Many financial institutions provide statements electronically. All taxpayers are encouraged to create an IRS Individual Account. They can access online transcripts, notices, and other tax information. 
 
 Document valuables 
 Take pictures or video of valuables before disaster strikes. It makes it easier to claim insurance and tax benefits. IRS.gov has a disaster loss workbook that can help taxpayers compile a room-by-room list of belongings. 
 
 Understand tax relief available for disaster situations

• Information on disaster assistance and emergency relief for individuals and businesses disaster assistance and emergency relief for individuals and businesses is available at IRS.gov. Taxpayers should also review Publication 547, Casualties, Disasters and Thefts.
• Taxpayers who live in a federally declared disaster area can visit Around the nation on IRS.gov and click on their state to review the available disaster tax relief. Those who live in designated areas for disaster relief receive automatic filing and payment postponements for many currently due tax returns and don't need to contact the agency to get relief.
• Taxpayers and practitioners who live in a federally declared disaster area with disaster-related questions can call the IRS Special Services Hotline at 866-562-5227 to speak with an IRS specialist.

More information

• Publication 3067, IRS Disaster Assistance