emergency fund Archives — Beating Broke

Having A Hard Time Saving? Use These 7 Strategies to Build Your Emergency Fund

December 12, 2024 By Teri Monroe Leave a Comment

building an emergency fund and using a savings tracker — Image Source: Pexels

You may know the importance of an emergency fund to help you weather life’s challenges. From job loss to unexpected expenses, an emergency fund is essential when you face financial hardships. However, creating an emergency find is not an easy task. According to Bankrate, 27% of Americans have no emergency savings at all, and 59% are uncomfortable with their level of emergency savings. Additionally, only 39% of Americans have a separate emergency savings account. If you have a hard time saving, you’re not alone, but you can change your behavior to ensure your future financial health. Here are seven ways to build your emergency fund.

1. Automate It

If you have a hard time saving, try automating it. When you receive your paycheck, a certain amount goes directly to your savings account. Many people refer to this as paying yourself first. This way, you ensure you are contributing to your savings and you won’t be tempted to spend the money in your checking account. Automating your savings makes it a non-negotiable like paying a bill or your mortgage. The amount you automate doesn’t have to be large. Just starting is what matters most.

2. Hide Your Savings Account

Instead of being tempted to take money out of your savings account, you can hide the account. If you can’t see it on your bank app, chances are you’ll be less likely to move money out of it. Most banking apps allow you to hide your account. For example, on the Bank of America app you can go to your account preferences page, click the account you want to hide, then click visibility. This can reduce your temptation to just transfer money over when you want to spend it.

3. Focus on Needs Not Wants

Only carry cash to build your emergency fund — Image Source: Pexels

One good strategy to help you with savings is to focus solely on your needs. Oftentimes, we wind up overspending if we aren’t only considering what we need to get by. These things include food, housing, transportation, and healthcare. If you can’t resist impulse purchases, leave your cards at home and only use cash. This can help you reduce the amount of money you spend and you’ll be less tempted to spring for something unnecessary.

4. Set a Tangible Goal

Setting a savings goal — Image Source: Pexels

The best way to stay disciplined when building your emergency fund is to set a goal. Put a number to how much you want to save and track your progress. Make sure to create a realistic timeline to reach your goal. For instance, if you want to save up to six months of expenses, you will likely need at least a year to fully fund your emergency savings. Plan for setbacks (they will happen) and be adaptable. This will help you reach your goals.

Celebrate when you reach milestones. For example, you might want to celebrate when you save your first $1,000 or when you hit your halfway point to your long-term goal. You might plan a little dinner out or grab yourself a nice bottle of wine to celebrate your success. Remember not to spend a ton of money celebrating, that negates the purpose altogether.

5. Utilize Budgeting Apps

Building an emergency fund using budgeting apps — Image Source: Pexels

Utilizing budgeting apps like You Need a Budget (YNAB) can help you plan financial decisions and work toward saving goals. Budgeting apps can help you determine how much you can comfortably afford to save each month while still paying down debt and expenses. These tools will also give a snapshot of all of your spending and help you set limits. You can then get alerts when you are close to your spending limits on certain categories.

Check out this list of the best budgeting apps available in 2025. There’s sure to be something that caters to your needs.

6. Set Aside Windfalls

If you receive a windfall of money no matter how big or small, set that money aside for your emergency fund. Anything from tax refunds, inheritances, bonuses, or investment gains should be added to your savings. If you want to use a portion of it to have fun, you can. But you should plan to put the majority of it aside for savings.

7. Make It Fun

Make building your emergency fund fun — Image Source: Pexels

Creating an emergency fund doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. You can gamify your savings or try a savings challenge with friends or family members. This can create accountability for you as well. There are several challenges to try like no-spend challenges, the 100 envelope challenge, and the 52-week money challenge.

Building an Emergency Fund

If you are working on building your savings, you’ve taken the first step toward securing an emergency fund. Saving money can be hard and it takes discipline. Try not to get discouraged by what experts say about how much you save. The important part is that you are trying to improve your financial situation. With determination, you can and will reach your goals.

Do you have an emergency fund? How do you put money toward savings?

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Teri Monroe

Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.

Smart Budgeting: How You Spend and Give Your Money Wisely

July 26, 2024 By Latrice Perez Leave a Comment

Smart budgeting is essential for managing your finances effectively and achieving your financial goals. By creating a strategic plan for spending and giving, you can ensure your money is used wisely. This guide will help you navigate the principles of smart budgeting to enhance your financial well-being.

Understand Your Income and Expenses

The foundation of smart budgeting is understanding your income and expenses. Calculate your total monthly income from all sources, including salary, investments, and side hustles. Next, track your expenses meticulously for a month to get a clear picture of where your money is going. This knowledge is crucial for creating a realistic budget.

Set Clear Financial Goals

Setting clear financial goals gives you direction and motivation to stick to your budget. Define both short-term and long-term goals, such as saving for a vacation, paying off debt, or building an emergency fund. Having specific targets helps you prioritize your spending and ensures you are working towards a financially secure future.

Prioritize Needs Over Wants

A key aspect of smart budgeting is differentiating between needs and wants. Prioritize essential expenses like housing, utilities, groceries, and transportation. Allocate funds for these necessities first before considering discretionary spending. This approach helps prevent overspending and keeps your budget on track.

Allocate Funds for Giving

Incorporating charitable giving into your budget is a wise financial practice that also benefits others. Decide on a percentage of your income to donate to causes you care about. Giving back not only supports your community but also provides personal satisfaction and fulfillment.

Create a Spending Plan

A spending plan outlines how you will allocate your income to various categories each month. Include fixed expenses, variable expenses, savings, and giving in your plan. By creating a detailed spending plan, you can control your finances better and avoid unplanned expenditures.

Use Budgeting Tools and Apps

Leverage technology to simplify budgeting and track your spending. Budgeting tools and apps like Mint, YNAB (You Need a Budget), and PocketGuard can help you stay organized and monitor your progress. These tools offer features like expense tracking, goal setting, and financial reporting, making budgeting more manageable.

Review and Adjust Regularly

Smart budgeting is not a one-time task; it requires ongoing review and adjustment. Regularly review your budget to compare your actual spending against your plan. If you find discrepancies, adjust your spending habits or revise your budget to make it more realistic. This continuous process ensures your budget remains effective and relevant.

Avoid Impulse Purchases

Impulse purchases can derail even the best-laid budgets. To avoid them, plan your shopping trips, make a list of what you need, and stick to it. Giving yourself time to consider whether a purchase is necessary can also help you avoid unnecessary spending.

Build an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund is a crucial component of smart budgeting. Set aside money each month to build a fund that can cover unexpected expenses like medical bills, car repairs, or job loss. Having an emergency fund provides financial security and prevents you from dipping into your savings or going into debt.

Seek Professional Advice

If managing your budget feels overwhelming, consider seeking professional advice. Financial advisors can provide personalized guidance and help you create a budget tailored to your needs and goals. Their expertise can be invaluable in navigating complex financial situations and achieving long-term financial success.

Smart Budgeting

Smart budgeting is about making intentional decisions with your money to achieve financial stability and fulfill your goals. By understanding your income and expenses, setting clear objectives, and using the right tools, you can spend and give your money wisely. Regular reviews and adjustments ensure your budget stays effective, helping you maintain financial health and security.

Latrice Perez

Latrice is a dedicated professional with a rich background in social work, complemented by an Associate Degree in the field. Her journey has been uniquely shaped by the rewarding experience of being a stay-at-home mom to her two children, aged 13 and 5. This role has not only been a testament to her commitment to family but has also provided her with invaluable life lessons and insights.

As a mother, Latrice has embraced the opportunity to educate her children on essential life skills, with a special focus on financial literacy, the nuances of life, and the importance of inner peace.

Layoff Survival Guide: 10 Budgeting Secrets for Surviving a Layoff

June 10, 2024 By Shay Huntley Leave a Comment

Dealing with the prospect of a layoff can be overwhelming. However, by implementing effective budgeting strategies, you can successfully navigate through these tough times. This guide provides 10 practical budgeting tips for surviving a layoff. They will help you to manage your finances while you search for new opportunities.

1. Create a Realistic Budget Immediately

Layoffs bring financial uncertainty, making it crucial to draft a new budget right away. Begin by listing all sources of income and essential expenses. Cutting non-essential spending helps stretch your savings longer. By prioritizing necessities over luxuries, you ensure every dollar counts, which is vital for surviving a layoff.

2. Build an Emergency Fund

If you haven’t already, start an emergency fund immediately. Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses. This fund acts as a financial cushion, allowing you to cover essential costs like rent, utilities, and groceries. Consistent contributions, no matter how small, will add up over time and offer peace of mind during a layoff.

3. Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions and Memberships

Review your monthly subscriptions and memberships. You should cancel any that are non-essential. Services like streaming platforms, gym memberships, and subscription boxes can drain your finances. Prioritizing your spending on necessities helps to survive a layoff by preserving cash for critical needs.

4. Negotiate Your Bills

Contact service providers to negotiate lower rates on your bills. Many companies are willing to offer discounts or payment plans to retain customers. This tactic can significantly reduce monthly expenses, freeing up funds for other essential costs. Effective negotiation is a powerful tool for surviving a layoff.

5. Take Advantage of Community Resources

Explore community resources like food banks, unemployment benefits, and local charities. These resources provide valuable support during tough times. Utilizing these services can help you save money on groceries, medical bills, and other essentials. This helps make a layoff less stressful.

6. Avoid Unnecessary Debt

Refrain from accruing new debt during this period. High-interest loans and credit card debt can quickly become unmanageable. Focus on paying down existing debts to reduce monthly payments and avoid future financial strain. Smart debt management is crucial for surviving a layoff.

7. Find Alternative Income Sources

Consider freelance work, part-time jobs, or gig economy. These opportunities can supplement your income. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or local job listings can provide temporary financial relief. Diversifying your income streams helps in surviving a layoff by easing the pressure on your savings.

8. Use Budgeting Apps

Consider using budgeting apps such as Mint or YNAB. They will monitor your expenses and manage your finances more effectively. These tools provide valuable insights into your spending patterns, helping you pinpoint areas where you can cut back. Being well-organized is crucial for navigating a layoff and maintaining control over your finances.

9. Sell Unused Items

Try generating extra cash. Do it by selling unused items online or through garage sales. Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist can help you turn clutter into cash. This additional income can be crucial for covering expenses and surviving a layoff.

10. Seek Professional Financial Advice

Consult with a financial advisor. Do so to create a solid financial plan tailored to your situation. Professional advice can help you navigate unemployment benefits, manage investments, and optimize your budget. Expert guidance is invaluable for surviving a layoff and planning for the future.

Ready to Take Control of Your Finances?

Facing a layoff is never easy, but these budgeting secrets can help you manage your finances effectively and reduce stress. Remember, the key to surviving a layoff is proactive financial planning and smart spending habits. Stay focused, stay resilient, and you’ll emerge stronger. By following these practical steps, you can navigate the financial challenges of a layoff with confidence and stability.

Small Changes That Lead to Big Savings

Shay Huntley

Shatel Huntley has a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University. In her spare time, she works with special needs adults and travels the world. Her interests include traveling to off-the-beaten-path destinations, shopping, couponing, and saving.