Building an emergency fund

Be prepared for life’s surprises when you build an emergency fund.

Why build an emergency fund?

Life doesn’t always go to plan. An emergency fund – sometimes called a safety net or rainy-day fund – is money set aside for unexpected costs, like fixing a broken boiler, car repairs or covering a gap in income. Having this buffer can help you feel more in control and reduce stress when things get tricky. It may also mean you won’t need to borrow.

Unlike saving for a specific goal, an emergency fund is there for life’s surprises.

An emergency fund could help with:

  • Home repairs – from a leaky roof to a broken appliance.
  • Car costs – servicing or unexpected fixes.
  • Family needs – travelling for an emergency or supporting loved ones.
  • Pet care – vet bills and treatments.

Start small and build steadily. Even a little extra set aside can make a big difference when you need it most.

 

Where to keep your emergency fund

Think about where to keep your emergency savings. You’ll want an account that suits your needs. Easy access accounts let you access your money whenever you need it. If you prefer a higher interest rate with less access, fixed accounts can help your savings grow. Just remember, you won’t be able to dip in without charges.

We offer a range of savings accounts, with minimum deposits starting from as little as £1 and easy access to your money when you need it. 

Compare savings accounts

Setting a goal

There’s no set amount for an emergency fund, but setting a goal can help you stay on track. Some people aim for around 3 months’ pay to cover a gap in income. Others start smaller, with a milestone like £500 or £1,000 – whatever feels achievable for you.
 
Use our savings goal tool in our app to set a target and keep your progress in view. Every step counts.

Start your emergency fund goal now

How much should you set aside?

Choosing how much to save each month for your emergency fund depends on your income, expenses and what feels manageable for you. Regular saving is a good habit, but your emergency fund should ease stress – not add to it. Start with what you can comfortably put aside and build from there.

A good guide is to aim to save about three months of your take home pay. This is the amount you normally earn after tax over three months.

Savings reminders

You can set your own reminders - for example, on your phone or calendar - for times when it might be easier to save. This could be if you’ve got a bit of money left before payday, you’re getting a refund, or a loan is coming to an end. These reminders can prompt you to move money into your emergency fund when it feels right for you.

Smarter ways to save with your account


Your account has useful features, and there are also a few simple things you can do yourself to help make saving easier.

 

Rename your account

Naming your savings account ‘Emergency Fund’ or ‘Emergencies’ can help keep it just for the unexpected. It may also make you pause before using it for day‑to‑day spending.

Rename your account

Check your spending

Take a look at your spending insights to see where your money’s going and where you might be able to cut back. You can also use the subscription manager to spot any services you’re paying for but not really using. Any money you save could go straight into your emergency fund.

Spending insights

Turn on spend notifications

Spend notifications can help you keep track of your money day to day, so you’re more aware of what you’re spending and can make informed choices.

App notifications

Saving and budgeting tips

Try the 50/30/20 rule

Split your income into needs, wants and savings. It’s a simple way to structure your monthly budget.

50/30/20 rule

Use our savings calculator

Work out how much you’ll need to save each month to reach an amount that feels right as a backup.

Use our Savings calculator

Stay flexible

Our tools can help you see what’s realistic for you. Save as regularly as you can, but don’t worry if it varies – higher spend months, like the start of the school term or holidays, are normal.

More saving tips

Topping up your savings

Even small amounts can make a big difference over time – and we’ve got plenty of easy ways to help you grow your savings.

Save little and often

Replace your morning coffee by saving the amount instead - £3 a day can add up to £270 in 3 months.

Round up as you spend

With Save the Change®, every time you use your debit card, we’ll round up your purchase to the nearest pound and move the difference into your savings.

Automate your saving

A standing order just after payday means your savings leave your account like any other bill - simple and stress-free.

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