Saving

Planning for the Expected and Unexpected

BUDGETING: Creating a Spending Plan SAVING Planning the Expected & Unexpected BORROWING How to Finance Wisely RETIREMENT Securing Your Future AAA VETERANS RESOURCES Past & Present Service Members

Making the decision to dedicate a portion of your income to savings is an important step toward improving and protecting your financial stability.

Basic saving plans often start with two key categories:

Emergency Funds

Life is filled with unexpected challenges.  From unforeseen health issues and illness to the loss of income or unemployment, maintaining an emergency fund can play a critical role in avoiding financial distress. While some experts suggest saving three to six months of essential expenses in an emergency fund, this may not work for everyone for a variety of reasons. The important thing is to start somewhere. Any amount you can regularly contribute to an emergency fund is better than being caught with nothing at all.

Saving for Expected Expenses and Other Major Purchases

Separate savings funds are often used to better prepare for specific types of general expenses that are expected to happen. Some examples include the costs of automobile maintenance, home repairs, holiday gifts, and vacations. This same strategy can also be used when planning for major purchases you foresee in your future, like buying a home or automobile.