Savings Goal Calculator 2026
Two modes: find the monthly savings needed to reach a target by a deadline, or see how long it takes to reach a goal with a fixed monthly contribution.
Savings Goal Strategies
Emergency fund (3-6 months of expenses): Keep in a high-yield savings account. For most households, aim for $15,000-$30,000. At $500/month into a 4.5% HYSA, you reach $15,000 in about 28 months.
Down payment (20% of home price): On a $350,000 home, you need $70,000. At $1,500/month in a HYSA, that's about 44 months. Consider I-bonds or a CD ladder for medium-term (2-5 year) savings goals.
Vacation / big purchase: Use a dedicated sub-account or separate HYSA. Auto-transfer a fixed amount each paycheck. Seeing the specific balance grow toward a goal is more motivating than keeping it in a general account.