Build a starter emergency fund fast

Three months of expenses can feel impossible. A starter fund of $500 to $1,000 covers many common surprises and builds the habit. Get there first.

A 30-day sprint

1. Open a separate savings account and name it "Emergency"
2. Set an automatic transfer for payday, even a small one
3. Pause one or two subscriptions for the month
4. Sell a few things you no longer use
5. Put any windfall in: a refund, rebate or gift
6. Track the balance somewhere you'll see it

Then keep going

Once the starter fund is in place, keep the automatic transfer running and raise it a little whenever your income goes up or a bill goes away.

General educational information, not financial advice. Stretching Funds Today isn't paid by any bank or company.