Preparing for financial emergencies is a must for everyone. You can’t always expect that things will go your way at all times. When unexpected circumstance arise, having prepared will save from trouble of being broke and totally penniless. Here are five practical ways on how you can be financially ready for possible emergencies.

1. Save up for small emergencies. Having your own personal savings that is easily within your reach can be a great help when small emergencies arise. Even just a few dollars a day can add up to a significant amount after a month or more. You can use this extra cash when you need to buy medicine or other items that are not on your budget list.

2. Open a bank savings account. Your bank savings account will ensure that you’ll have funds to support you and your family during emergencies. Save enough money that will last you for at least six months in case you lose your job and you need to find a new one. Your savings account will buy you some time while you look for work or other sources of income.

3. Keep up with your debts. Keeping up with your monthly payments to you creditors while you have the means will help you stay away from bad credit. In case financial crisis arise, you can easily talk to your creditors and inform them of your situation. If your past payments records show that you’ve been a good payer and that the only thing keeping you from submitting your payments are circumstances beyond your control, your creditors will likely to be more considerate in dealing with your debts.

4. Contribute to your retirement plan. It’s best to regularly contribute to your retirement plan especially if it is provided by your employer. Take advantage of this opportunity while you have an employer to help you save up for your retirement.

5. Get a personal insurance. Obtaining insurance policies not just for you, but for your family as well will give you more financial security in case of sickness or emergencies. Medical bills can easily rack up in just a few days and without an insurance to cover your expenses, you may find yourself suddenly stuck in serious debts.

These are just some of the options you can do to secure your future. Although you can obtain short term loans or payday loans in a hurry, don’t forget that these loans often come with very high interest rates. Yes, you can avail of the cash you need quickly but you’ll also have to pay it back by your next pay check.

Furthermore, guaranteed payday loans are never meant to be a long term solution for financial needs. Payday loans or quick loans are only limited up to a certain amount, usually up to $1,000 only. If you need more than that you’ll have to obtain a real loan. Therefore, having your own funds to use during emergencies will certainly be a tremendous help so instead of being too confident about your financial situation, save up today and prepare.