If your savings account balance is looking sad, you're not alone.
According to a 2016 GOBankingRates survey, 69% of Americans have less than $1,000 in their savings accounts.
What's more, 34% have no savings at all:
While the numbers seem staggering, it shouldn't come as a huge surprise, considering about half of US families have zero retirement account savings.
GOBankingRates also broke down savings by age, so you can see how you stack up against your peers:
GOBankingRates also broke down savings by age, so you can see how you stack up against your peers:
How much should you have in the bank?
Most financial advisors recommend having three to six months of living expenses in an emergency fund to pay for unexpected costs.
In addition to establishing a rainy day fund, it's smart to set savings goals for major purchases that you hope will be in your future, like a home, car or vacation. It may be helpful to set up multiple savings accounts in order to save for specific expenses.
Most financial advisors recommend having three to six months of living expenses in an emergency fund to pay for unexpected costs.
In addition to establishing a rainy day fund, it's smart to set savings goals for major purchases that you hope will be in your future, like a home, car or vacation. It may be helpful to set up multiple savings accounts in order to save for specific expenses.