<prompt> Human: I always keep about 10k in an emergency fund just in case. It has seriously come in handy this past month alone.I was living with family when recently there was a tragic mishap that left us homeless. I had to shell out to help everybody get things sorted out and then temporary rent a place to sleep for the week. On top of that, I needed to get an apartment on short notice. Not fun having to put down 600 security deposit plus 150 aminapp fee, and another 800 for pro-rated first-month rent. So here Im already out about 2000 of emergency fund. Today, my car decides to bust a purge valve and take the vacuum line with it. Theres another 300 at the mechanic. Also had to drop 350 to get utilities set up at my apartment 250 deposit plus 100 fee.Had to move all my stuff about 230 miles. My job heard of my misfortune and was willing to give me a new job in a new office with a 15 pay-raise. The catch is that the job doesnt start until October 1st, but they also offered a sizable start bonus. Decided to take it, but I will be without income for 2 months. 65 in gas for the move plus another 2.5-3k for the 2 months of living.Left the food for my family members back home. Had to get a months worth of food. Another 120.Im sure more shit will come, but within a week and a half Im out over 3000. Thankfully, that emergency fund is coming in handy and will continue to keep me fine until my new job starts early October and I can begin to get back up to 10k. If it wasnt for the fund, I have no idea what the hell I would do.Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it. Dont get Starbucks today and keep it for a day when youll really need it. Never know when life will decide to kick you in the balls.  <response>: Yup, it is good to have living expenses when disaster strikes. I think this should just be fundamental.Honestly, it is good to have it, even when disaster doesnt strike. The overall emotional well-being and peace of mind it has purchased me is unbelievable. I dont have to stress much of anything financially because of it.For those who care: The next step is having your other finances on auto-pilot D. Then I dont have to worry about spending money because its budgeted, tracked and all other savingsretirement is automated. Talk about walking tall and free. 