How to Build an Emergency Fund Using Budgeting Apps

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Creating an emergency fund is an important part of financial planning. Saving money and building an emergency fund has become easier with the help of budgeting apps. This article will discuss the features of an emergency fund and the general steps for building an emergency fund using budgeting apps.

What is an emergency fund?

An emergency fund is a pool of money that you set aside to cover unexpected expenses or income loss. It acts as a financial safety net and can help avoid debt or financial hardship in case of an emergency. The following characteristics describe an emergency fund:

  • Liquid: An emergency fund should be readily available and liquid so that you can access the money fast if needed. This is why most monetary experts recommend keeping your emergency fund in a money market or high-yield savings account.
  • Adequate: Your unique situation will determine how much money you need in your emergency fund. Still, most experts recommend keeping three to six months’ worth of living expenses in reserve as an emergency fund.
  • Separation: It is important to maintain separation between your emergency fund and other savings or checking accounts. This will prevent you from accidentally using your emergency funds.
  • Replenish regularly: If you do spend your emergency fund, it’s important to replenish it quickly. To make sure your emergency fund is ready for the next unexpected expense, set a goal to build it up.

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Steps to Build an Emergency Fund Using Budgeting Apps

Here are some steps to build an emergency fund using budgeting apps:

  • Set a savings goal: Figure out how much you need to set aside for an emergency fund. Save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses, according to experts.
  • Track Your Spending: Use a budgeting tool to track your spending and find places where you can save. This will allow you to save more money for your emergency fund.
  • Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your emergency fund savings account using the app to automate your savings. This will force you to prioritize saving money for emergencies and ensure that you regularly add money to your emergency fund.
  • Use the app’s savings features. Some budgeting apps have built-in savings features that can help you save money fast. For example, some apps round up your purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the spare change to your emergency fund.
  • Review and adjust your budget: Review your budget regularly and make adjustments as necessary. If you receive a raise or bonus, consider increasing your automatic savings contribution to your emergency fund.

Budgeting Apps That Can Help Build an Emergency Fund

Here are some examples of budgeting apps that can help you build an emergency fund:

Peppermint

Using a Free Budgeting Tool PeppermintYou can track your spending, create a budget, and set savings goals. You can monitor progress towards your savings goals and set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account. Additionally, Mint provides reminders when budget is exceeded or bills are due, which can save you money by preventing unexpected expenses.

YNAB (You Need a Budget)

YNAB Is a paid budgeting app that helps with budgeting and tracking expenses. It offers an “Age of Money” feature that predicts how long the fund will last. The app encourages putting every dollar to a job, such as allocating money to an emergency fund. Savings goals for an emergency fund can be set and tracked.

pocket guard

pocket guard is a free budgeting tool that allows users to track their spending and create savings objectives. Users have the option of setting up automatic transfers to savings accounts and creating budgets. The app provides alerts as the budget cap is reached and as bill due dates approach. The “In My Pocket” function shows the money available to put into an emergency fund.

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every dollar

free budgeting tools every dollar It was developed by Dave Ramsey, a personal finance expert. Its feature called “Baby Steps” walks users through the process of building an emergency fund in addition to allowing them to set and track budgets. EveryDollar also provides information on spending patterns and savings opportunities to grow an emergency fund.

personal capital

personal capital is a free app that can help with tracking spending, budgeting, and setting savings goals. It also provides tools for investment planning and retirement savings. With Personal Capital, users can view a breakdown of their net worth and set up automatic savings transfers to an emergency fund.