Financial back-up plan

As our communities continue to deal with the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many of us may be impacted financially. Times like these show us how important building an emergency fund is. An emergency fund allows you time to make a new plan if you or a family member lose a job or have unexpected expenses. 

To build an emergency fund, begin with a small goal and grow your savings over time. You should eventually try to save enough to pay your bills for three to six months. Even if you can’t work, you can continue to pay things like rent, utilities or a car payment by using those savings.

If you’re already feeling squeezed financially, don’t worry about an emergency fund now. But when you’re back on your feet and making a new spending plan, be sure to include an emergency fund. If you don’t create a formal budget, try to save some money from each paycheck. 

If you’re fortunate enough to still have your usual income, you may actually find extra savings right now on things like gas and restaurant food. Use that extra to build up your emergency fund. You can also put extra income, like your tax refund or stimulus check, toward it. Remember, even small contributions will add up in the end. You can open an additional free savings account to better track your progress and keep your emergency money separate.

For more tips on how to save and budget your expenses or to talk about your individual financial situation, fill out the form below.