How big should your emergency fund be? The rule of thumb is three to six months of expenses, but context matters. Single earners or freelancers often feel better with 6–9 months. Dual-income households with stable jobs may be comfortable at 3 months. Medical deductibles, job market health, and family support all influence the target. Use our Emergency Fund Target calculator: enter monthly expenses, how many months you want to cover, and any existing savings. The tool shows your goal, a monthly plan, and how long it will take based on your contribution. If the number feels high, start with a micro-goal—$500 to cover the most common surprises. Momentum beats perfection.