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Summer is a great time for softball, picnics and
travel. Unfortunately, good vacations may be spoiled by losing a purse
or wallet. In addition to losing cash, you have cards that must be
reported and replaced.
Plan ahead and know what to do if you have to take quick action.
The typical mix of documents that you might be carrying could include
two credit cards, two ATM cards, two forms of photo ID including a
driver's license, and a passport. If you are in transit and have no
address to receive a duplicate card, you are going to be in a fix if you
can't cover your traveling needs.
Having two credit cards and two ATM cards provides you with continued
access to funds between the time a card is lost and when you can receive
a duplicate. The best strategy for traveling with two cards is to carry
only one credit card with you and keep backup cards in a hotel safe
along with your ID cards and passport.
Before you leave home, fill out several 3 x 5 cards with phone
numbers to notify credit card and ATM issuers in case your cards are
lost or stolen. The numbers are generally toll-free in the United
States. Collect-call numbers are common out of the United States. Keep
this information in several different places and make sure traveling
partners have the same information.
Also leave credit card information, passport numbers, etc. with
family or friends at home. It's a good idea to alert your credit card
issuers when you'll be traveling out of the country - they won't think
that your card has been stolen and deny payment authorization.
Your loss on credit cards is limited to $50 per card and $50 per
card for debit cards if you report a loss within two days. However, if
you report between two and 60 days, you will be responsible for $500 per
card.
Be sure your debit card uses a PIN, or personal identification number,
to access your funds. Newer ATM cards are being issued without PIN
numbers and can be used by anyone who finds them.
Make a copy of the page in your passport with your picture and passport
number. This will help expedite a replacement. Carry a couple of extra
passport photos with you as well.
To board an airplane, you must have a form of government ID. Most of us
use a driver's license or passport, but our backups are limited. If you
have a military ID card, this will serve as a backup ID. Keep your
backup ID in a separate place from your primary ID. Carry your wallet in
your sock or credit card in a pocket with a button or zipper closure.
These sites share safety and protection tips to
help you protect your property
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ASKACOP.org
