Everyone loves that popular Capital One catch phrase, but do you really know “What’s really in your wallet”? There are quite a lot of things in your wallet you really don’t need.
If your wallet is stolen, the more you carry means the more susceptible you become to identity theft. I know people who still carry their social security cards around. Seriously yes. Why? Who knows? Memorize your number and shove it in a safe somewhere, where only you have the access code.
Do you really need to carry around eight different credit cards? Make sure you have your bank card, and a maximum of two other cards, if you feel you need to and keep the rest locked away. I
f you know you are going to make a purchase that requires a different card, then take it with you and put it back in the safe when you’re done charging up a storm.
All those rewards cards? Get them out of there. Not only do they bulk up your wallet, but they contain a treasure trove of information that you don’t want falling into the wrong hands. (Actually, organize them over here, like this!)
Great! So you’ve cleaned out your wallet and are just carrying your essentials. Unfortunately, handbags can be snatched and wallets stolen, and it’s important to be able to protect yourself. Time is of the essence when trying to keep a criminal from emptying your bank account.
Let’s say your wallet is stolen while you are out at lunch. You get back to your desk and realize it’s missing. Your credit cards and bank accounts are all at risk.
Now what? You have to try to remember what you had in your wallet. Maybe you had that Chase Visa card, maybe the HSBC one? Not sure, huh?
- Who do you tell?
- What number do you call?
- What was that account number?
To save yourself time, aggravation, and to be just a bit more organized: make a copy of the contents. This way, you have all your information in case someone steals it. This will enable you to quickly notify your bank and your creditors. Accounts can be shut down, your money protected, and your credit left intact.
There are few ways to do this:
1. Make a physical copy, and keep a copy in your safe at home, maybe even one at work with you. Does your work station desk lock? If so, perfect! If it doesn’t then NO on this one. I’ve found most workplace theft are from the people who work closest to you.
2. Take a photo, and email it to yourself. Then delete the photo from your phone.
3. Scan and save everything to a password protected file, and then email that file to yourself, so you can access it from any computer.
4. Or for those who prefer a little technology, check out the 1Password wallet feature. It’s pretty close to amazing as far as I’m concerned.
Just remember to take an image of the front and back of the cards, which will ensure that you have all the information you need, so you’ll always know “What’s in your wallet”.
~V
Velma
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