In a country where healthcare costs can bankrupt a middle-class family overnight, an emergency fund isn't a luxury — it's survival.
How Much Is Enough?
- Single person, stable job: 3 months of expenses (Rs. 90K-1.5L)
- Married, dual income: 3-4 months (Rs. 2L-3.5L)
- Family with children: 6 months (Rs. 4L-7L)
- Self-employed / freelancer: 6-9 months
- Sole breadwinner: 6-12 months
Where to Keep It
Your emergency fund needs instant access — so no fixed deposits with lock-in penalties. Best options: high-yield savings accounts (SadaPay, NayaPay, Meezan) offering 10-14%, or a combo of savings + short-term National Savings certificates.
An emergency fund isn't about the amount — it's about the habit. Start with Rs. 1,000 today rather than waiting until you can save Rs. 50,000.