Make the result useful
an emergency-fund gap
This worksheet makes an emergency-fund gap explicit from the exact figures you enter. Review the period and basis of every amount before comparing results.
Use a conservative scenario as well as the base scenario; the calculation describes assumptions rather than predicting behavior.
The assumptions that move this result
Monthly costs
Costs you choose the reserve to cover.
Coverage months
Your selected runway target.
Reserved cash
Dedicated cash already held.
monthly costs × coverage months − cash reserved
Read the result as a planning measure for the selected period.
Read the number in context
Worked scenario
At $2,400 for 3 months with $1,800 saved, the gap is $5,400.
Edge case
A repair due tomorrow can make a multi-month target insufficient for immediate needs.
This is a target you choose, not financial advice.
Before you act
• Confirm every input uses the same time period.
• Test a downside scenario before relying on the result.
• Keep source records with the decision.
Formula
monthly costs × coverage months − cash reserved
What period should I use?
Use one consistent reporting or planning period for every input.
Does this predict performance?
No. It only performs the stated arithmetic.
Can it replace records or advice?
No. Confirm decisions with source records and appropriate professional guidance.