3 months for stable dual incomes; 6–12 for variable income or single earners.

In a liquid, insured high-yield savings account — accessible but separate from spending.

Where should I keep my emergency fund?

In an accessible, insured high-yield savings account.

Does it include all spending?

Only essentials — housing, food, utilities, insurance, minimum debt payments.

Home › Savings & Investing › Emergency Fund Calculator

Free emergency fund calculator. Find your target safety net based on monthly expenses and months of cover.

An emergency fund covers essential costs if income stops. Set your target based on expenses and desired months of cover.

The calculator multiplies your essential monthly expenses by the number of months of cover you want, giving a target safety-net amount.

$3,000 of monthly essentials × 6 months = an $18,000 emergency fund target.

How many months?: 3 months for stable dual incomes; 6–12 for variable income or single earners.
Where to keep it?: In a liquid, insured high-yield savings account — accessible but separate from spending.
Where should I keep my emergency fund?: In an accessible, insured high-yield savings account.
Does it include all spending?: Only essentials — housing, food, utilities, insurance, minimum debt payments.