Emergency Fund Calculator
Find how big your safety net should be — and how far you have to go.
Estimates for educational purposes only — not financial, tax, or investment advice.
How much is enough
An emergency fund covers essential expenses if your income stops — a job loss, a medical bill, a big repair. The common guideline is three to six months of essential spending, leaning toward six (or more) if your income is variable or you're a single earner. This calculator multiplies your monthly essentials by the months you want covered, then shows the gap left to fill.
Where to keep it
An emergency fund's job is safety and instant access, not growth — so keep it in a high-yield savings account, not in stocks. You want to be able to reach it the same day without selling investments at a bad time.
Frequently asked questions
Three months or six?
Three months if you have very stable income and few dependents; six or more if your income is irregular, you're self-employed, or you're the sole earner.
Should I invest my emergency fund?
No. Its purpose is to be there in full when you need it. Keep it liquid in a savings account, separate from long-term investments.