Emergency Fund Sizing Tool
Calculate your ideal emergency fund based on your unique income pattern, essential expenses, and personal risk factors. This personalized approach goes beyond the generic “3-6 months of expenses” advice to help you create the right financial cushion for your specific situation.
Your Financial Profile
Income & Expenses
Risk Factors
Additional Factors
Risk Tolerance & Support
Your Emergency Fund Recommendation
Recommended Emergency Fund
Your Ideal Financial Cushion
$18,000
6 months of expenses
Minimum Safety Net
$12,000
4 months
Conservative Protection
$24,000
8 months
Risk Factor Analysis
Based on your inputs, the following factors were most significant in determining your emergency fund recommendation:
Scoring Breakdown
Building Your Emergency Fund
Starting Point
$0
Starter Fund
$3,000
Basic Security
$9,000
Full Protection
$18,000
Starter Emergency Fund
$3,000
This initial safety net covers smaller emergencies like car repairs, minor medical expenses, or brief income interruptions. Aim to reach this level as quickly as possible before focusing on other financial goals.
Basic Security Fund
$9,000
This intermediate level provides protection against moderate emergencies, including shorter periods of unemployment, larger medical expenses, or major home/vehicle repairs. Continue building toward this level while balancing other financial priorities.
Full Protection Fund
$18,000
Your complete emergency fund provides comprehensive protection against extended income loss, major medical issues, or multiple simultaneous emergencies. This is your long-term emergency fund goal.
Personalized Recommendations
Action Steps:
Important Notes:
- This calculator provides recommendations based on your inputs, but your specific situation may require adjustments.
- Emergency funds should be kept in highly liquid accounts like high-yield savings, not invested in volatile assets.
- Regularly reassess your emergency fund needs as your financial situation and life circumstances change.
- While building your emergency fund, continue making at least minimum payments on all debt obligations.
- Consider consulting with a financial professional for personalized advice tailored to your complete financial picture.