You may feel as if the holidays have already drained your bank account to the limit; however, you need to find a few dollars to start an emergency fund if you do not already have one.  Having an emergency fund is important because it allows you to pay for those unexpected emergencies without the need to dip into retirement, savings or your bill money.  It also helps you survive short periods of unemployment or lower income.  If the recession taught Americans anything, it should have taught us to be prepared for an unexpected financial crisis.

For more read, “Why You Need an Emergency Fund in the New Year.”