An emergency fund cushions you against surprise financial setbacks. Use our emergency fund calculator below to help you pinpoint your savings goal.
How much emergency fund should I have?
Three to six months' worth of your current living expenses is a good rule of thumb as the target amount for an emergency fund. This sum acts as a financial buffer to help you avoid going into debt from unexpected events, such as sudden car repairs, medical emergencies or job loss. It can be difficult to predict the cost of an emergency, so stocking up lets you be prepared just in case.
If that seems too steep, start with a number that seems more reasonable. For example, having access to $500 in a savings account could help pay for a surprise car repair or medical bill without debt, so that could be a goal. If you put $10 a week into savings and don’t have to dip into the funds, it’ll add up to more than $500 after a year.
Keep in mind that it’s OK if you have to use the funds for emergencies before you reach your first goal. An emergency fund is meant to be tapped and replenished. After you reach your first goal, you can set another one to be prepared for more unexpected expenses later.
Emergency funds typically live in savings accounts, which make it easy to access your money.
» Learn more about the best high-yield savings accounts
If you need more info, here's our emergency fund explainer.
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Member FDIC
Forbright Bank Growth Savings 
APY
3.85%
Min. balance for APY
$0
Member FDIC
Varo Savings Account 
APY
5.00%
Min. balance for APY
$0
Member FDIC
E*TRADE Premium Savings 
APY
4.00% for 6mo
Min. balance for APY
$0
Where to stash your emergency fund
Once you have a target, find a savings account with a competitive interest rate where you can store your cash.
A savings account is the best place to keep your emergency fund — it provides easy access to cash if you need it. And a high-yield savings account will help you grow your balance by paying a higher-than-average interest rate.
