Emergency fund

An emergency fund, also known as a contingency fund,^[1] is a personal budget set aside as a financial safety net for future mishaps or unexpected expenses. A critical part of financial planning, it is supposed to ensure one's personal finances are prepared for any emergency so that the risks of becoming dependent on , falling into debt, or running out of money in general are reduced if such a situation were to occur.

Emergency funds may be used in the case of job loss, medical emergencies, automobile problems, home appliance repairs and replacements, and unplanned travel expenses.^[2]

• Rainy day fund
• Contingency fund