How Much Should You Add to Your Emergency Savings To Keep Up With Inflation?

How Much Should You Add to Your Emergency Savings To Keep Up With Inflation?

Kerra Bolton  Mon, March 31, 2025 GOBankingRates

Saving three to six months of emergency savings is a must, especially during times of economic uncertainty. However, rising inflation means that a $10,000 safety net might not be able to buy as much tomorrow as it does today.

GOBankingRates talked to financial experts to find out how much you should add to your emergency savings to keep up with inflation.

3% to 4%

Carson McLean, founder of Altruist Wealth Management, said individuals should aim to increase their emergency fund by 3% to 4% annually, assuming average inflation.

“For example, if your emergency fund is $30,000, aim to add an extra $900 to $1,200 each year, just to maintain its purchasing power,” McLean said.

Individuals can find the inflation rate by using the annual Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“Set an annual recurring calendar reminder to review the prior year’s inflation data and top up your fund,” McLean said. “Alternatively, set up an automatic savings transfer. For example, add $100 per month to your emergency account, which covers most inflation adjustments without much thought.”

The Exact Annual Inflation Rate

William Bergmark, a personal finance expert at Credwise, recommended that individuals use the annual inflation rate to calculate how much they should add to their emergency savings.

“For example, if you’ve saved $20,000 and inflation is 5%, you’ll have to put in at least $1,000 that year,” Bergmark said. “Inflation gradually erodes the purchasing power of your money — just letting it sit in the bank. So, it is a must to continuously build your emergency fund.”

TO READ MORE: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/much-add-emergency-savings-keep-150033188.html