In short: It\u2019s a rainy day fund that offers the security of knowing you can cover unexpected expenses should the need arise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Keep in mind that starting your rainy day fund may take time, but there\u2019s no need for the process to feel stressful or overwhelming. It\u2019s all about having a plan, and these four steps to start an emergency fund can help guide you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you think about how to start an emergency fund, begin with your budget. If you don\u2019t have a budget right now, no worries! Start one today with these five budgeting basics<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In your budget, add a line for your emergency fund. If you don\u2019t have excess income, try to find ways to reduce other expenses, so you can start this habit of building up your emergency savings. Once you\u2019ve identified where you can find the money in your budget, set aside a fixed amount of your regular paycheck into a special emergency fund account. When you consider where to keep your emergency fund<\/a>, you have several good options, including high interest rate savings, money market, CD, or IRA accounts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Setting](\"https:\/\/www.discover.com\/online-banking\/banking-topics\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/4-Steps-to-Start-an-Emergency-Fund-From-Zero_2-INARTICLE_NEW-scaled-e1678289074655.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Treat your emergency fund like a monthly bill<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
2. Take baby steps<\/h2>\n\n\n\n