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A great way to stay on track is to build a robustemergency fund.

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And yet, so many people struggle to do it.

Being faced with emergencies is not a question of if but when.

Crises are a given for everyone.

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So its important to be prepared for when emergencies do occur.

Its the psychological trap of viewing emergency savings as money thats locked away rather than as financial freedom insurance.

Shifting this mindset is key here.

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When income barely covers necessities, the idea of setting money aside can seem impossible, she said.

For others, its not about what they make but how they spend, according to Mueller.

They Neglect To Save When Tackling Debt

High-interest debt creates a painful double-bind, Shahnazari said.

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Every dollar in emergency savings feels like a dollar not going toward debt reduction.

Subscription Creep Inhibits Saving

Subscription creep is the silent killer of emergency funds, Shahnazari said.

These small expenses can add up and inhibit saving.

Shahnazari observed that people tend to underestimate their recurring charges by $150 to $300 monthly.

The amount doesnt have to be overwhelming to make a difference, she said.

Its the consistency that matters.

As you adjust to the habit, increase the amount when possible.

Redirecting that money into your emergency fund can quickly add up, she said.

For clients withparticularly tight budgets, I recommend supplementing income through side gigs or selling unused items.

; (2) How do you plan on keeping yourself focused on your financial goal in 2025?

; (3) If youre planning to retire in 2025, what is your main financial concern?

; (4) How much debt do you have?

; (5) How do you plan on paying down your debt in 2025?

; (6) How much time do you expect to spend planning your budget per month in 2025?

; (7) Currently, what percentage of time do you stick to your budget?

; (8) How much do you have in your emergency fund?

; (9) How much do you expect to add to your emergency fund in 2025?

; (10) How many months of your expenses do you have saved?

; (11) What financial resources are you incorporating into your personal finances in 2025?

; and (12) Whats your main financial concern going into 2025?

GOBankingRates used PureSpectrums survey platform to conduct the poll.

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