STORY:
Financial Advice for Y2K Preparation

Practical advice for those who believe computer Y2K will strike financials

(Everything2000) Now that Y2K is almost here, consumers want to know what they can and should to prepare for computer related Y2K problems, especially when it comes to personal finances. The First Internet Bank of Indiana, an online financial institution has developed ten tips highlighting the most sensible way to prepare personal finances for Y2K:

1. Gather your most recent bank, credit card and investment account statements before year-end, in case there is a discrepancy in the New Year.

2. Withdraw enough cash for a typical three-day holiday weekend.

3. If you're traveling or prefer to keep more cash on hand, get traveler's checks. (Traveler's checks are safer than cash if lost or stolen.)

4. Don't wait until the last minute to visit the ATM for cash. (If your local ATM is out of cash, don't panic. It will be re-supplied.)

5. If you've moved, make sure your personal information is up-to-date with your bank, insurance company, credit card issuer and brokerage firm.

6. Pay your bills and make loan payments early, so they don't get lost in the holiday or year-end rush.

7. Refrain from using telephone lines at midnight on December 31. (Most phone systems are not equipped to operate at 100% volume.)

8. Keep your money in a FDIC-insured institution. It's the safest place there is.

9. Remember, banks and other businesses will likely be closed for the holiday weekend. The first business day of the New Year is January 3.

10. Don't get bogged down in the hype of the millennium bug. Enjoy the holiday season and New Year with the important people in your life.

DATE: 12/20/99

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