Free Sinking Funds Calculator
A sinking fund is money you set aside a little at a time for a cost you know is coming. Add your upcoming expenses below to see the monthly amount for each fund and in total.
Upcoming expenses
| Expense | Cost ($) | Saved so far ($) | Months until due | Per month |
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| - | ||||
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Example funds are filled in. Replace them with your own.
What a sinking fund is
A sinking fund is money you save in small monthly amounts for a cost you know is coming but do not pay every month, such as car insurance, holiday gifts, school supplies or a vacation. When the bill arrives, the money is already there, so it does not land on a credit card.
How to calculate each fund
- List every irregular expense for the next 12 months and its cost.
- Subtract anything you have already saved for it.
- Divide what is left by the number of months until it is due.
- Add the monthly amounts together and include the total in your budget.
Worked example
The six example funds need about $733 a month in total. Holiday gifts take the largest share, $300 a month, because $600 is still needed in only two months. Annual subscriptions need just $15 a month because the bill is a year away.
Where to keep sinking funds
- One high-yield savings account with a simple tracker for each fund, or
- Separate savings "buckets" if your bank offers them.
Either way, track each fund balance so you know what is available for which expense.
Prefer paper? Download the free Holiday Gift Budget List printable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a sinking fund and an emergency fund?
A sinking fund is for expected costs you can plan for. An emergency fund is for surprises such as a job loss or a medical bill.
How many sinking funds should I have?
Start with the three to five irregular costs that most often end up on a credit card, then add more as you go.
What if an expense is due this month?
Enter 1 month. The calculator will show the full remaining cost for this month, which is a sign to adjust the budget or move money from another fund.
Does this calculator save my funds?
No. Everything is calculated in your browser and nothing is sent or stored.