 TITLE: What to Consider Before You Get an Emergency Loan CONTENT: Take Steps to Prepare for the Next Emergency\n--------------------------------------------\nIt's impossible to predict when emergencies will happen, so once you've managed to recover from the current one, take some steps to get ready for the next one.\nStart by budgeting money specifically for emergencies. Some banks may even allow you to open additional savings accounts for this purpose. If money is tight, you may not be able to save much, but any amount can make it easier to weather the next storm when it comes.\nAlso, work on improving your credit so that you'll have more financing options if you find yourself in the same position in the future. That includes checking your credit report to address potential issues and errors, paying your bills on time, keeping your credit card balances low and avoiding debt unless you absolutely need it.\nWhile these steps won't inoculate you from future emergencies, they can give you some peace of mind knowing you'll be more prepared for when they invariably occur. END