Preparing for the Unexpected with Emergency Savings

Author: Siân Killingsworth / 8 Jan 2018 / Personal Finance

Preparing for the unexpected with emergency savings can be difficult, particularly if you don’t have that safety net to rely on. Some of life’s most exciting and scariest moments come from surprises we never see coming. An unexpected expense ­– hospital bills, losing your job, etc. ­– can seriously impact your financial well-being in the moment, and in the future.

To better prepare for an unexpected emergency, we’ve assembled tools to help you build a sturdy financial plan that protects you. Setting up an emergency fund, stepping up your budgeting skills and giving up on bad financial habits are all crucial steps to avoid an unexpected financial disaster.

1. 6 emergency fund myths you should stop believing

It’s easy to make excuses not to save money for a rainy day or emergency fund. Maybe you feel like you’re buried in too much debt, don’t make enough money or saving for retirement is hard enough! But according to this WiseBread article, you are never too young, old, poor or rich to stash away some extra money to prepare for life’s unpredictable twists and turns.

2. Survey: How Americans contend with unexpected expenses

According to this Bankrate study, 43 percent of respondents were forced to reevaluate their financial plans due to an unexpected expense. While you can’t predict the future, you can prepare for all the uncertainties it can bring. Should you dip into your savings, take out a loan, tighten your budget or utilize your credit? Check out this survey to find out what method is best for you.

3. Create a “life happens” fund in addition to your emergency fund

Have you mastered your savings and feel ready to take a break? Not so fast! This Lifehacker article suggests that in addition to an emergency fund, you should have a “life happens” fund for expenses that don’t necessarily qualify as emergencies, such as routine health care costs, car repairs or veterinary bills. That way, you avoid depleting your emergency stash and have the reassurance that you are covered for any minor snags.