If You Can’t Start An Emergency Fund, Start A Change Jar

If You Can’t Start An Emergency Fund, Start A Change Jar

It’s a good idea to have some kind of financial buffer to help keep you in the black. The problem is, not everyone can afford it. If you’re struggling to set aside money for things like an emergency fund, start small with a change jar.

As personal finance site Enemy of Debt explains, the change jar is one of the easiest ways to save without hurting your budget. You may not be able to toss a couple of hundred bucks at a savings fund — for some even tossing $5 out of your paycheck can feel painful — but saving coins can feel a lot easier. Every time you pay for something with cash, toss the remaining change in the jar. Over time, you’ll build up a buffer. It might not be six months worth of expenses, but it will help when you need it.

Enemy of Debt also offers a few helpful tips for your change jar. For starters, get something opaque so you won’t see the pile of coins and get tempted to spend it. Go for something that’s big enough to allow room to grow, too. The idea here isn’t necessarily to fix your financial problems once and for all, but rather to get you into the habit of saving when you don’t have much to save. Check out the post below for more tips on getting the most out of a change jar.

Trouble Starting An Emergency Fund? Try A Change Jar! [Enemy of Debt via Rockstar Finance]


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