Give the goal a number and a date, and we will work out the monthly amount. Then we build the cushion.
This is financial education, not financial advice. Results are estimates based on the numbers you enter, and any rates shown are illustrative.
How to read your result.
For anyone saving towards school fees, a deposit or a business, and anyone without an emergency cushion yet.
Save each month
The amount to set aside every month to hit the goal on your date, including a little interest while it waits. If it feels too high, move the date rather than give up on the goal.
Your emergency fund target
Three to six months of essential costs. Three months is the minimum; lean towards six if your income is irregular or family depends on you.
Months covered today
How long your current savings would carry you if income stopped. Watching this number grow is the best motivation there is.
Where to go from here.
Related reading.
The ideas behind this tool, explained properly. Each one takes a few minutes.
Questions people ask.
How big should an emergency fund be?
A common guide is three to six months of essential costs: rent, food, transport, school fees, utilities and loan repayments. If your income is irregular or you support family, lean towards six months or more.
Where should I keep my emergency fund?
Somewhere safe and reachable within a few days, and ideally separate from your spending money. Many Kenyans use a money market fund for this. Keep a small amount in M-Pesa or the bank for the truly urgent things.
What interest rate should I use?
Use a rate you can realistically expect for where the money will sit. The default here is an illustrative money market fund rate. If the money stays in a current account, use 0%.
Should I save for goals or pay off debt first?
Usually a small emergency cushion first, then expensive debt, then bigger goals. Without the cushion, every surprise becomes a new loan.
Got your number? Let’s talk about it.
The Financial Clinic is a short, free check-in where we look at your actual goals and timelines together. No products to sell you.