The Pineapple Project: How to save an emergency fund

The 'magic word' that could save you from financial mess

Hint: It’s not abracadabra - by Livia Gamble

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Losing your job or falling ill unexpected can take a huge toll on you, not only emotionally but also financially.

One way to remove some of the stress that comes with being blindsided by an obstacle is to have an emergency fund.

“The stuff that often blindsides us is the things that haven't been on our radar,” Financial planner, Kate McCallum, told Clare Cooper on The Pineapple Project podcast.

"Make sure you do as much as you can to plan and then be in a position that you can deal with the blows when they happen," she added.

Doing so means you will have one less thing to worry about.

"It means you’ve got a little more energy to focus on the emotional side of things and the practical side of things that you’ve got to deal with."

How much do you need in an emergency fund?

"It depends on each individual," says Kate. "As a rule of thumb, I would generally recommend to people to have six months worth of their expenses."

How do I save money for an emergency?

As the podcast previously explained: The "magic word" and key to getting starting on your emergency fund is, "automation".

Sit down, look at your budget and work out how much money you can realistically afford to put away every week or month.

"Understand how much you can put away that you can afford not to touch," says Kate. "This is your non-touchable account. It’s not an account that you dip into who you’re a little bit short."

Listen to The Pineapple Project here.

Livia Gamble

Based in Sydney, Livia Gamble will not sleep until she has discovered every possible way to use bi-carb soda and vinegar. When she isn’t reporting on ways to improve your home and garden, she can be found knitting socks (by choice) and will never say no to pizza.