Tuesday, 27 September 2011 21:37
by
Jacki
Experts are always saying that you need to have an emergency fund, but what exactly are they, and how much do you need? Here are answers to these questions and more about emergency funds.
What is an emergency fund?
It is money set aside for exactly what it says, an emergency. This includes emergency repairs to a vehicle or home, or living expenses in case of job loss or illness/injury. It is not savings used for a specific purpose like a purchasing a car or vacation.
Why do you need one?
You never know what life may bring you such as job loss, an injury or illness, or a faulty engine in your car. Unfortunately, when an emergency happens, bills continue to come in. An emergency fund can help you through a period of time until you are able to get another job, recover, or adjust your lifestyle.
How much do you need?
Experts suggest that you should have 3-6 months of living expenses set aside. It really depends on your situation, for instance how many children you have or your current lifestyle and insurance coverage. You may have opted for insurance coverage on your vehicle in the case of job loss or injury, which would lessen your needs.
How can you build it?
Make it a point to put money aside. Open up a separate savings account with money automatically deposited from each paycheck. Try to deposit as much as you can, but if you can do at least $10 per paycheck, it will add up over time.
Where should you keep it?
You want your emergency funds to be fairly liquid, so a regular savings account makes sense. However, if you have a significant amount saved, you want to be earning the most you can. Money market accounts and certificates are good for this purpose.