How runway is worked out
Your runway is the number of months your savings cover if your paycheck stopped tomorrow. The calculator divides the savings you could actually reach by your monthly spending, after any other income such as unemployment benefits or a partner's pay.
Months = savings ÷ (monthly spending − other income)
With $15,000 saved and $3,500 of monthly spending, you could last a little over 4 months. Cutting spending by 20% to $2,800 stretches it to about 5 and a half months, which in a job search can make a real difference.
Making it longer
In a real emergency most people cut more than they expect: subscriptions, eating out and travel go first. Knowing your bare-minimum budget ahead of time shows your true runway. Count only money you can reach quickly; retirement accounts usually come with taxes and penalties if withdrawn early.
Common questions
How many months of expenses should I have saved?
Three to six months is the usual guidance, more if your income is irregular or you are the only earner.
Should I count my 401(k)?
Only as a last resort. Early withdrawals usually face income tax and a 10% penalty.
Do unemployment benefits count?
Yes. Enter them as other income to see the longer runway.
This calculator gives estimates for planning. Real returns, rates and prices change, so treat the result as a guide rather than a promise. Read how we build and check our calculators.