As now Tropical Storm Ian makes its way up the East Coast and local forecasts call for weekend rain, storm season is upon us. Ahead of what NOAA has predicted will be a fall with above average hurricane activity, and with the effects of last year’s other “I” storm, Ida, still fresh, a new resource is available from the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants to assist in the wake of such events.

NJCPA announced the release of its Disaster Recovery Guide Sept. 30. The free handbook is designed to offer guidance in case you or your business suffers damage from natural disasters.

“Though Hurricane Ian is not expected to wreak as much havoc on the Mid-Atlantic states as it has in the Southeast, it’s an important time for New Jerseyans to review their documents ahead of any potential natural disasters and flooding,” said NJCPA Executive Director and CEO Ralph Albert Thomas. “It’s also a good time to touch base with one’s CPA on how these disasters can impact the finances of a business or individual.”

The guide is available here on the NJCPA website. Featured information includes:

• how to replace personal identification cards
• how to document damage and losses for insurance claims
• avoiding disaster-related fraud and amending tax returns
• contact information for state and federal agencies and for most major insurance agencies servicing New Jersey,
• and more.

ICYMI

Area accounting firms are accepting donations for the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants’ 13th annual food drive, which benefits the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. Find out more here.