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March 9, 2026

Rebranding the emergency fund: Why a ‘cushion' works better — and how to start one

  • Here's how to figure out how big your emergency fund should be, and how you should invest it.
    • By CHRISTINE BENZ
    Morningstar

    Emergency funds need a PR makeover. Who wants to think about broken-down cars, sick dogs, or job loss? We should call them “cushion funds.”

    Then there's the frequently cited ideal amount: three to six months of expenses. That's a decent starting point, but it sounds off-putting to people just starting their financial journey.


     
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