Emergency Runway Calculator.
Calculate your months of coverage, your funding gap, and how much interest you're leaving on the table by keeping your emergency fund at a big bank.
Emergency Fund Calculator
How many months of runway do you have?
Drag this slider to see what your fund would earn in a high-yield account.
The 3–6 month guideline is a common educational framework used by many financial professionals — not a universal rule. Freelancers, self-employed individuals, and those in cyclical industries may benefit from 9–12 months. Your ideal amount depends on income stability, dependents, monthly obligations, and personal risk tolerance. The 4.6% HYSA benchmark reflects top-tier rates available as of early 2026; HYSA rates are variable and change with Federal Reserve policy. FDIC insurance covers up to $250,000 per depositor per institution. This is general educational information, not personalized financial advice.
FDIC limits apply. Rates variable & subject to change.
Not financial advice.
Why 3–6 Months?
The 3–6 month guideline reflects how long it typically takes to replace income after an unexpected job loss. Single-income households, freelancers, or those with less job security may benefit from targeting the higher end of this range. The "right" number is personal — this tool gives you a framework, not a prescription.
Where to Keep It
Emergency funds should be liquid (accessible within 1–2 business days), FDIC-insured, and separate from your investment accounts. High-yield savings accounts currently offer 4–5%+ APY — significantly more than the 0.01% average at major banks — while maintaining full liquidity and insurance. Rates are variable and subject to change.
Build Your Safety Net
Keep your emergency fund liquid and earning 4.60% APY. SoFi offers up to $2M in FDIC insurance and no account fees, making it the perfect home for your rainy-day fund.
Partner: SoFi