Consider taking precautions, such as protecting against water damage by placing items in plastic containers or zip-lock bags. And, don’t keep identifying information on or near your safe deposit box key, such as the box number and the bank’s name, in case of loss or theft. Remember that, by law, FDIC insurance covers only deposit accounts. Also, don’t expect the bank to reimburse you for theft of or damage to the contents of your safe deposit box. If you want protection for the valuables in your safe deposit box or home safe, talk to your insurance agent.
Anonimity and Privacy
Safe deposit boxes remain the best option–both the safest and cheapest–for storing valuables and are universally recommended by federal, state and local law enforcement and relief agencies, such as FEMA, FBI, AARP and the American Red Cross.
It is important to understand, however, that contents kept in safe deposit boxes are not insured by any financial institution or federal agency.
Given the increased frequency and severity of natural disasters and other catastrophes, which no vault or box can protect against, it is recommended that box holders maintain some level of insurance coverage.
Good candidates include originals of key documents, such as birth certificates, property deeds, car titles, and U.S. Savings Bonds that haven’t been converted into electronic securities. Other possibilities include family keepsakes, valuable collections, pictures or videos of your home’s contents for insurance purposes, and negatives for irreplaceable photos. (Another option may be to store digital images of important documents and photos on a secure website that you can access from anywhere over the Internet.)