While saving one month of expenses is a good starting point, it’s not considered sufficient for a fully prepared emergency fund. Most financial professionals advise at least 3 to 6 months to ensure that you can weather longer periods of financial disruption, such as prolonged unemployment or a medical crisis. One month may help cover minor emergencies — like a car repair or urgent bill — but it falls short in situations that last several months. Relying solely on a one-month cushion could lead to increased stress or the need to borrow money when unexpected challenges arise. It’s better to treat a one-month fund as a milestone, not the end goal. Incrementally building toward the 3–6 month range provides greater security and peace of mind. Without an adequate emergency fund, even small setbacks can quickly spiral into long-term financial strain.