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Prepare for the unexpected

Life can throw us curveballs, and it pays to be prepared. A little planning now means it doesn't have to break your budget.

Why you should get prepared

We’ve all been caught in life’s unexpected downpours— a car breakdown, an appliance malfunction or a bill that's way bigger than normal. Whether you're on a tight budget or not, an unplanned expense can throw your financial goals off course.

That’s why it pays to be prepared. Keep reading for practical tips on building your emergency fund and how insurance can help keep you covered when the skies turn grey.

Build your rainy day fund

An emergency fund or your rainy day fund, is money set aside for life’s unexpected costs—like urgent repairs or surprise bills. It’s a separate account you only use when you really need it. While everyone's situation is different, a good goal is to save enough to cover three to six months of livings expenses. That said, even a little savings can make a big difference when the unexpected happens.

Work out what you need

Use our Rainy Day Savings Planner to figure out what’s right for you. It’ll help you estimate how much to set aside so you’re ready when the unexpected happens.

Set your goal

Once you know what you’re aiming for, set your goal with Goal Planner and start building your rainy day fund with confidence.

Start saving

Start making regular contributions to your rainy day fund — automated transfers can help you save regularly without even thinking about it.

Insure the things that matter to you

It's a good idea to insure the things you value, like your home, contents, car, life, income and health. What you own can add up to a lot, that's why it's important to have the right level of cover and regularly check how much you actually need.

Cover your 'stuff'

It's wise to protect your home and personal belongings against things like accidental damage, fire and theft.

Home and contents insurance
Car insurance

Cover your lifestyle

Consider cover that kicks in if you were to lose your job, couldn’t work, or for your family if you pass away.

Life and income insurance
Health insurance

Other actions to build better financial wellbeing

Master your day to day

Organise your money and set a plan.

Get on top of debt

Find new ways to stay on top of debt.

Work towards your savings goals

Get saving savvy and grow your money.

Invest in your future

Build towards your retirement.

Read more about preparing for the unexpected

ASB MoneySpacePrepare for the unexpected