Allocation Strategy
Savings Bucket Visualizer
Split your monthly savings across competing goals — emergency fund, retirement, house, and more.
Your Situation
Adjust Your Buckets
Emergency Fund
3-6 months of expenses for unexpected costs
30%
$300/mo
Retirement
401(k), IRA, or brokerage for long-term wealth
40%
$400/mo
House Down Payment
Saving for a home or other major purchase
20%
$200/mo
Other Goals
Travel, wedding, car, or flexible savings
10%
$100/mo
Monthly Breakdown
Emergency Fund
$300
$3,600/year
Retirement
$400
$4,800/year
House Down Payment
$200
$2,400/year
Other Goals
$100
$1,200/year
Build Your Emergency Fund First
Priority #1: Get 3-6 months of expenses in savings before anything else. This is your financial foundation.
Still contribute enough to retirement to get the full employer match (it's free money), but focus the rest on your emergency fund.
Once your emergency fund is set, you can be more aggressive with retirement and other goals.
Remember: This is a guideline, not a rule. Life changes, priorities shift. Adjust your buckets as needed — the key is being intentional about where your money goes.