Erie Introduces Emergency Cash Cards

Erie Insurance (Erie, Pa.) has teamed with Visa to offer pre-paid emergency cash cards to policyholders, should they experience significant property loss. The cards can be used to pay for hotel stays and to purchase personal belongings, such as clothing and food. Previously, the carrier provided policyholders with a check or cash advance to cover such expenses.

"Our policyholders have said they'd appreciate the convenience of a card like this if they experienced a loss," Erie Insurance senior vice president and claims division officer Matt Myers said in a press release.

According to the carrier, the cards can be used anywhere Visa is accepted to reserve a hotel room, rent a car or buy groceries, gas, clothes and other essentials. Policyholders can also use the cards to withdraw cash from ATMs that have Visa or Plus symbols. Purchases can be made in retail stores, by phone, by mail or online.