Building financial security that benefit your mental well-being
4 May 2023
Preparing for unexpected expenses

It’s important to prepare for unexpected expenses, especially if you have family back home who rely on you. Building an emergency fund can help you feel more secure and give you peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances. Here are some tips and steps to help you save money and build your emergency fund:

1. Set a savings goal: Start by setting a realistic savings goal. Determine how much you need to save to cover at least three to six months of your expenses, and make a plan to save that amount over time.

2. Create a budget: A budget can help you track your expenses and find areas where you can cut back. Start by listing all your expenses, including rent, utilities, food, and transportation. Then, identify areas where you can reduce spending, such as eating out less or finding cheaper transportation options.

3. Automate your savings: Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account each month. By automating your savings, you’ll be more likely to stick to your savings plan.

4. Prioritize your savings: Make saving a priority by setting aside a portion of your income each month before paying for other expenses. This will help ensure that you’re consistently contributing to your emergency fund.

5. Avoid unnecessary expenses: Be mindful of your spending and avoid unnecessary expenses. For example, avoid impulse purchases and limit your spending on non-essential items like clothes and entertainment.

Benefits of setting emergency fund

Having an emergency fund can provide a financial safety net in case of unexpected expenses, such as a medical emergency or a sudden job loss. By having money set aside, you can avoid going into debt or having to rely on high-interest loans or credit cards to cover these expenses.

Financial stress and anxiety can have a significant impact on mental health, leading to symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. By having an emergency fund and a solid financial plan, you can reduce financial stress and feel more in control of your finances, which can contribute to a greater sense of well-being.

Organizations or resources that provide financial education or support

Below are the resources that can provide important support and financial education for migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong, helping them to improve their financial literacy and management skills and achieve greater financial stability and security.

1. Enrich Hong Kong helps migrant domestic workers who seek financial education and support. They provide financial management training.
Enrich Hong Kong

2. Uplifters empowers migrant domestic workers and underprivileged communities by helping them break the cycle of poverty through online education and community support.
Uplifters