Building an emergency fund

Be prepared for life’s surprises when you build an emergency fund.

Why save an emergency fund?

An emergency fund is your safety net for life’s unexpected costs – from a broken boiler to sudden job changes. It helps ease financial stress and means you’re less likely to rely on borrowing. Unlike saving for a specific goal, an emergency fund is there for life’s surprises.

An emergency fund could help with:

  • Home repairs – from a leaky roof to a broken appliance.
  • Car costs – servicing or unexpected fixes.
  • Family needs – travelling for an emergency or supporting loved ones.
  • Pet care – vet bills and treatments.

Start small and build steadily. Even a little extra set aside can make a big difference when you need it most.

 

Starting your emergency fund

You’ll want an account that suits your needs for your emergency fund. Instant access accounts let you access your money whenever you need it. If you prefer a higher interest rate with less access, fixed accounts can help your savings grow. Just remember, you won’t be able to dip in without charges.

We offer a range of savings accounts, with minimum deposits starting from as little as £1 and instant access to your money when you need it. 

Compare savings accounts

How much should you set aside?

Choosing how much to save each month for your emergency fund depends on your income, expenses and what feels right for you. Regular saving is a good habit, but remember your emergency fund is there to ease financial stress, not add to it. Start with what you can manage and build from there.

Saving and budgeting tips

50/30/20 rule

Split your income into needs, wants and savings. This budgeting tool can provide a helpful structure to manage your monthly income.

50/30/20 rule

Savings calculator

Use the savings calculator to work out how much you’ll need to save each month to reach an amount you’d feel comfortable with as a backup.

Savings calculator

Flexible saving

Use the tools to give you an idea of the amount you can realistically save each month, and save as regularly as you can. You may find you save less during higher spend months, such as the start of the school term or going on holiday.

More saving tips

Set your goal

There’s no set amount for an emergency fund, but setting a goal can help you stay on track. Some people aim for around 3 months’ pay to cover a gap in income. Others start smaller, with a milestone like £500 or £1,000 – whatever feels achievable for you.
 
Use our savings goal tool in our app to set a target and keep your progress in view.

Try the savings goal tool

Topping up your savings

Even small amounts can make a big difference over time - and we’ve got plenty of easy ways to help you grow your savings.

Save little and often

Replace your morning coffee by saving the amount instead - £3 a day can add up to £270 in 3 months.

Round up as you spend

With Save the Change® , every time you use your debit card, we’ll round up your purchase to the nearest pound and move the difference into your savings.

Automate your saving

A standing order just after payday means your savings leave your account like any other bill - simple and stress-free.

You may also like

Message us online

Get answers to your everyday banking questions. Log in to the app or online banking to get in touch.

How to message us

Your Credit Score

Check your credit score for free and view your credit history with no impact on your credit file.

Check Your Credit Score

Money worries

If you are struggling with your finances, or worried about the increased cost of living, you are not alone. We can help.

Support with money worries

Savings help and support

Get more support on a range of savings topics.

More savings support

Savings help and support

Get more support on a range of savings topics.

More savings support