Emergency Fund Calculator
Find out how much you should have saved and create a realistic plan to build your financial safety net.
Your Financial Situation
Rent/mortgage, utilities, food, insurance, minimum debt payments
Your net pay after taxes and deductions
Amount you currently have set aside for emergencies
People who rely on your income (spouse, children, parents)
Realistic amount you can set aside each month
Your Emergency Fund Plan
Enter your financial details and click "Calculate" to see your personalized emergency fund plan
Savings Milestones
How Much Emergency Fund Do You Really Need?
3 Months
The minimum recommended baseline for most people.
- Stable job with good job security
- Dual-income household
- No dependents
- Low monthly expenses
6 Months (Recommended)
The standard goal for most financial situations.
- Single income household
- 1-2 dependents
- Moderate job security
- Some variable expenses
9-12 Months
Extra protection for higher-risk situations.
- Self-employed or freelance
- Single parent
- Industry with layoff risk
- Health conditions requiring care
Emergency Fund FAQs
What counts as an emergency?
True emergencies include job loss, major medical expenses, urgent home or car repairs, and unexpected essential travel. Sales, vacations, and non-urgent purchases are NOT emergencies. Having a clear definition helps you avoid dipping into your fund unnecessarily.
Should I pay off debt or build an emergency fund first?
Start with a small starter emergency fund of $1,000-2,000 to avoid going deeper into debt for small emergencies. Then focus on paying off high-interest debt. Once debt is paid off, build your full emergency fund.
Where should I keep my emergency fund?
Keep it in a high-yield savings account (HYSA) separate from your regular checking. This earns interest while keeping funds accessible within 1-2 business days. Avoid CDs or investments that have withdrawal penalties or market risk.
How do I start if I can't save much?
Start small - even $25-50 per paycheck adds up. Automate transfers so you don't have to think about it. Look for one-time windfalls (tax refunds, bonuses, gifts) to boost your fund. Every dollar counts.
What if I use some of my emergency fund?
That's exactly what it's for! Don't feel guilty. After the emergency passes, make rebuilding your fund a top priority. Redirect the money you were saving toward debt or other goals back to your emergency fund until it's replenished.