Know How Much You Need To Save

The first step to making sure you won't be running out of money in an emergency is to know how much you'll actually need. Yes, I know...the typical advice is 3 - 6 months of expenses. But do you know exactly how much you REALLY need?

Don't use guesswork. "I make $4000 a month so that's how much I need." Maybe. It depends on how that $4000 is spent each month. If it all goes to cover essentials, you are correct. If not, you could possibly manage for a bit with less.

You can get started by determining where your money goes each month. This is somewhat like making a budget. Add up all of your income for a month. If you're a dual income family, both paychecks count. Then add alimony, child support, any income from side hustles, investment income...if money comes in to your bank account, add it to your income.

Next take a look at your expenses. Which are absolutely essential? Rent or mortgage payments, food, utilities, obviously. But what else do you absolutely have to pay each month? Car payment? Probably. Insurance and vehicle maintenance costs (this includes fuel in my book). Is anyone in your family on regular medications? They'll need to keep taking them. Childcare? That could depend on the type of emergency. I would always err on the side of caution. Better to have more than you need than not enough.

Anything that does not have to be paid each month...meaning it's something you don't need for survival...is non-essential and can be cut if need be. You can live without cable TV, or your morning Starbucks run. You won't die if you miss a spa day. 

Add up your total monthly ESSENTIAL expenses. Multiply by six. That's how much you need to have saved for emergencies. 

Now...how to do that.

Many experts recommend saving 20% of your monthly income. That's great. If you can do it. But if you are already stretched thin, taking out 20% could be difficult. Start where you can. Something is better than nothing. The important thing is to get started saving now! The sooner you start, the sooner you will have your financial cushion ready for emergencies. If you can only save $5 a week, do it. But do it consistently! Once you figure out how much you can save each month, do it EVERY MONTH! No excuses. A little self-sacrificing now may make all the difference in an actual emergency.

Check out these posts for some additional information on saving money:

Why Did I Buy Those Shoes?!

Set A Savings Goal

The First Step to Saving Money - Spend Less Than You Earn