Triple-Virgin-Organic-Argan-Hair

4 Pieces Of Advice On Starting An Emergency Fund

Tips On Starting An Emergency Fund

You should always expect the unexpected! You can be prepared for the unexpected by having an emergency fund set aside. An emergency fund is the best defense against a financial emergency. Many people doubt that they can afford to start, build, and maintain an emergency fund. But the truth is that one cannot afford not to have these funds.

A financial emergency could be an auto or home repair, medical expense, job loss, death, or anything else requiring a significant amount of money on short notice. Unfortunately, these challenges force many people to deal with the situation by using credit cards or taking out a loan. This simply makes the condition even more challenging in the long term. Remember these tips!

1Save 3-6 Months Worth Of Living Expenses

The general rule is to keep between three to six months of living expenses in a readily accessible account. Of course, that's just a general rule. The proper amount for you will depend on your specific situation. No two circumstances are identical.

Consider if children are part of the equation. How much debt are you currently carrying? What types of insurance coverage do you have now? The answers to these questions will allow you to make an informed decision about the size of your emergency fund.

2Prepare For The Worst Times

Sudden loss of income is the most common reason for needing to dip into an emergency fund. If there is a job loss, bills still need to be paid. Finding significant employment can take a few months at least. Don't be caught without an income and money in savings!

It is always best to have a plan in place for the worst-case scenario. It's easier to handle smaller emergencies, like buying new tires for the car. Situations will arise - it's simply part of life.

3Start With Small Savings

If you don't already have an established emergency fund or if saving money is difficult for you, starting small is fine. Even accumulating a single month of living expenses can take some time. Set small, manageable goals, and the odds of reaching them will be better. The simplest way to get started is by opening a savings account at your bank, and this should be an account separate from any other account you may currently have. Get into the habit of making consistent deposits, set a schedule, and stick to it.

Even just $10 or $20 a week can be a good place to start. Try to increase the amount you're saving each month slowly. Over time, you may want to move those funds into an account that can earn more interest. After attaining the minimum balance levels, getting a money market account or certificate of deposit can be a better solution.

4Use The Fund For Emergencies Only

Have discipline and only use this money in times of financial emergency. A vacation or a new wardrobe is not an emergency! Avoid dipping into your emergency fund to pay for other large expenses that aren't true emergencies.

Having an emergency fund is a big part of maintaining financial stability. It protects you and your family from unforeseen emergencies. It's important that you get started today! Every little bit can make a difference.

Everyone faces financial challenges at times. Are you ready when the time comes? If you're not, you'll hate yourself for not having made the proper preparations.

Be prepared for the inevitable challenges of life. Knowing that you're ready, it will be easier to weather the storm. You'll also sleep better.



About Author

Jackie Wing

Jackie Wing is an Alaska native who enjoys snowboarding more than is probably socially acceptable. She lives in Anchorage with her two dogs Reese and Peanut or as she likes to call them Thing 1 and Thing 2.