1. When should I use my emergency fund?
This is a fantastic question because I commonly write about how people should maintain an emergency fund commensurate with the nature of their jobs and their social safety nets. Just to recap, the more volatile your job or the less predictable your income, the larger your emergency fund should be. However, if you have a social safety net in that you have financially stable parents, close relatives, or friends who can help you financially if you are in a pinch, the smaller your emergency fund can be. Keep in mind that you can also use a Roth IRA to maintain your emergency fund because your contributions can be withdrawn at any time without tax or penalty. But when is it ok to use your emergency fund? Here is a short list to help you not feel guilty when dipping into your emergency fund: major car or house repairs, unexpected medical bills, job loss, death in the family, etc. A vacation does not qualify. Lastly, it should go without saying that if you deplete your emergency fund, your top priority should be to replenish it pronto.