Emergency Fund Calculator

Emergency Fund Calculator: How Much Do You Actually Need?

Three to six months of expenses is the standard advice, but the right number depends on your situation. A single-income household with a mortgage needs a bigger cushion than a dual-income renter. This calculator gives you a personalized target based on your actual expenses and risk factors.

Keep your emergency fund in a separate account — not your everyday checking account. The friction of a separate account prevents impulse spending. A high-interest savings account or money market account works well: safe, accessible, and earns something while it sits there.