Emergency Fund Calculator
Find out how big your emergency fund should be based on your monthly expenses, and how long it will take to fully fund it at your savings rate.
Recommended Emergency Fund
$18,000
6 months of expenses
Amount Still Needed
$16,000
remaining to reach goal
Months to Fully Fund
40 months
Est. October 2029
Progress toward goal
11%
Frequently Asked Questions
How many months of expenses should an emergency fund cover?
Most financial experts recommend 3–6 months of essential expenses. If your income is variable, you're self-employed, or you have dependents, aiming for the higher end (6–12 months) provides greater security against job loss or unexpected large expenses.
What expenses should I include in my monthly essential expenses?
Include only essential, fixed costs you must cover to maintain your household: rent or mortgage, groceries, utilities, insurance premiums, minimum debt payments, and childcare. Leave out discretionary spending like dining out, entertainment, and subscriptions you could pause in an emergency.
Where should I keep my emergency fund?
Your emergency fund should be liquid and easily accessible — a high-yield savings account (HYSA) is the most common choice. Avoid investing it in stocks or locking it in CDs, since you may need it on short notice. The goal is stability and access, not maximum returns.