In today’s uncertain times, having a financial safety net is more important than ever. An emergency fund can provide you with peace of mind, helping you navigate unexpected expenses or sudden income disruptions. And one effective way to save for emergencies is by using a savings account. So, let’s look at the five simple steps through which you can build your emergency fund while making the most of your savings account. 

Step 1: Open a savings bank account

The first step towards saving an emergency fund is to open a savings bank account. A savings account offers a range of features designed to help you grow your money while keeping it easily accessible. Look for a bank that offers competitive interest rates, low or no maintenance fees, and convenient access through online banking and mobile apps. Comparing different savings accounts can help you find the one that best suits your needs.

Step 2: Understand the features of a savings account

A savings account typically comes with various features that make it an ideal choice for your emergency fund. These may include a minimum account balance requirement, an ATM or debit card for easy withdrawals, and the option to set up automated transfers from your primary account. Additionally, some banks provide tools like a savings account calculator, which can help you estimate how much you need to save and how long it will take to reach your goal. 

Step 3: Compare different savings accounts

Not all savings accounts have the same features. It’s important to compare the interest rates offered by different banks, as even a small difference can have a significant impact on your savings over time. Consider factors such as account fees, customer service reputation, and the bank’s stability. This research will help you select a savings account that maximizes your savings potential while providing the necessary security and convenience.

Step 4: Establish a realistic savings goal

Determining how much to save in your emergency fund depends on your individual circumstances and financial obligations. A commonly recommended rule of thumb is to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses. However, if you have dependents or work in a field with a higher risk of job loss, consider aiming for a larger emergency fund. Use the savings account calculator provided by your bank to help you set a realistic savings goal and track your progress over time.

Step 5: Allocate and automate your savings

To ensure consistent progress towards your emergency fund, it’s important to allocate a portion of your income specifically for savings. Set up an automated transfer from your primary account or salary account to your savings account on a regular basis, such as monthly or with each pay cheque. This way, you won’t have to rely on willpower alone to save. Treating your savings as a fixed expense will help you build your emergency fund steadily without feeling the pinch.

To summarise 

Saving for an emergency fund is an essential part of personal finance, providing you with a financial safety net when unexpected situations arise. By utilising a savings account, you can take advantage of its features to meet your savings goals for building an adequate emergency fund. Remember, the key is to start small and be consistent. With each contribution to your emergency fund, you’re taking a significant step towards securing your financial future.

Investing your hard-earned money in the right place is always a tricky decision, especially if it’s your first time. There are a lot of things to consider before making any investment decision, and even if you have good knowledge about investments, practical knowledge is always different. But worry not, there is a solution to this predicament. Mutual funds could be an excellent option for beginners who are unsure about how to invest their money. The beauty of mutual funds is that they allow you to get exposure to the markets while following the guidelines of an experienced fund manager.

Among mutual funds, ELSS (Equity Linked Saving Scheme) could be an ideal option for beginners as they offer tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. Learn more about ELSS funds and see why it could be your first mutual fund investment. 

What are ELSS funds?

ELSS is an abbreviation for Equity-Linked Savings Scheme. Section 80C of the Income Tax Act provides tax benefits for this type of mutual fund investment in India. The majority of the corpus of ELSS funds is invested in equity and equity-related instruments. These funds have a three-year lock-in period, which means the investor cannot redeem their investment before three years have passed. ELSS funds are regarded as one of the most advantageous tax-saving investment vehicles due to their potential to generate significantly higher returns than other tax-saving instruments.

Reasons why ELSS is a good investment option for beginners

• ELSS offers tax benefits to investors under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. Investors can claim a tax deduction of up to Rs. 1.5 lakh per year on the amount invested in ELSS funds. The lock-in period for ELSS is 3 years, which is the shortest among all tax-saving investments. ELSS is a popular investment option, as it provides the dual benefit of tax savings and wealth creation.
• ELSS funds can be an excellent option for beginners as it eliminates the need to invest directly in the market. Investing directly in the market requires a thorough understanding of the market trends and keeping a close eye on how the markets are doing. However, with ELSS funds, you don’t have to worry about market timing or keeping track of stock prices. ELSS funds are managed by professional fund managers who are responsible for investing the money collected from investors into the stock market.

Once you have chosen an ELSS fund based on your investment goals and risk tolerance, you only need to assess its performance every now and then. The fund manager will take care of all the buying and selling decisions, making the investment process hassle-free for you.

• ELSS funds are designed to promote long-term investing, and it works best when investing in equities. Equities, being a high-risk asset class, require a longer investment horizon to realize their full potential. Therefore, by investing in ELSS funds, investors can build a disciplined approach towards long-term investing in equities.
• One of the significant advantages of ELSS funds is the mandatory lock-in period of three years. This lock-in period means that investors cannot withdraw their investment before three years from the date of investment. The lock-in period ensures that investors stay invested for the long-term and do not withdraw their money during market volatility or short-term fluctuations.

Conclusion

ELSS funds offer a compelling investment option for beginners who are looking for a hassle-free way to invest in the equity market while enjoying tax benefits. With the professional expertise of fund managers, ELSS funds provide investors with a disciplined approach towards long-term investing in equities.