Banking
Emergency Fund Calculator
Your target safety net — and how fast you'll get there.
Enter your numbers above.
Estimates only — not financial advice. See assumptions below.
How this works
Assumptions
- Target = essential monthly expenses × months of coverage.
- Essentials = housing, food, utilities, transport, insurance, minimum debt payments.
- Contributions assumed constant; kept in savings (no investment growth assumed).
FAQ
How many months should I target?
3–6 is the standard range: 3 for stable dual incomes, 6+ for freelancers, single incomes, or households with dependents. The calculator lets you test any number.
Where should I keep it?
A high-yield savings account: FDIC-insured, earning interest, separate from daily spending — and not invested, since market crashes tend to coincide with job losses.
Keep unpacking
How we make money: Unpack Money may receive compensation when you click certain links or apply for products through our site. Compensation may affect where products appear, but it does not determine our editorial evaluations. Learn more