If there’s one financial habit that brings peace of mind, it’s having an emergency fund. Unexpected expenses happen to everyone—car repairs, medical bills, home fixes—and without a cushion, those moments can throw your entire budget into chaos. The good news? You don’t need a huge paycheck to start building financial security. Even if money feels tight, small steps add up.

Start Small and Stay Consistent

An emergency fund doesn’t have to start with thousands of dollars. Begin with what feels realistic—$10, $20, or even the cost of a weekly coffee run. Set that money aside every week, and within a year you’ll already have a few hundred dollars saved. The key isn’t the size of your contributions but the consistency.

Keep It Separate

It’s tempting to dip into extra money sitting in your checking account. That’s why experts recommend opening a separate savings account for emergencies only. Out of sight, out of mind—until you really need it. Many banks and credit unions allow you to create sub-accounts with no extra fees, making it easier to keep your emergency stash untouched.

Automate the Process

One of the simplest ways to save is to take the decision-making out of it. Set up an automatic transfer the day after payday. When the money moves before you even see it, you’ll be less tempted to skip a contribution.

Remember: Progress Over Perfection

It’s easy to feel like saving isn’t worth it if you can’t put away hundreds at a time. But even small amounts create momentum. Your goal is progress, not perfection. Over time, those small deposits grow into a safety net that keeps life’s surprises from becoming full-blown crises.

Building an emergency fund may feel slow at first, but every dollar saved is one step closer to peace of mind.