Planning
Emergency fund / savings goal
Estimate how long it takes to hit a cash goal with regular contributions and a steady savings rate.
Target cash balance you want to reach. For an emergency fund, a common rule of thumb is 3–6 months of essential expenses (rent, food, insurance, minimum debt payments).
$
What you already have set aside toward this goal. Only counts if it is available cash or a liquid savings account you would actually use in an emergency.
$
How much you plan to add each contribution period (daily, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly). Higher amounts shorten the time to goal; set to 0 to see growth from returns alone (if any).
$
Contribution frequencyHow often you add the contribution amount. Returns compound on the same interval in this model (for example weekly contributions compound weekly).
Assumed yearly yield on the balance, compounded at your contribution frequency. High-yield savings often runs ~4–5%; use 0 for pure cash with no interest.
%
Time to goal
2 yrs 1 mo
Still need $13,000Monthly contributions
Breakdown
Total contributions$12,500
Growth from returns$775
Balance at goal$15,275
- Assumes end-of-period monthly contributions with compounding at the same interval — real returns and deposits vary.
Frequently asked questions
How big should an emergency fund be?
Common guidance is 3–6 months of essential expenses, more if income is variable. Use a number that matches your costs and risk tolerance.
What contribution frequencies are supported?
Daily, weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly. Enter the amount you add each period; returns compound on the same interval in this model.
Does this include investment risk?
No. It assumes a steady rate such as a high-yield savings APY. Markets do not return a fixed rate every period.
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