Emergency Fund

What percent of paycheck should go to savings: A Simple Guide to Smart Saving

February 22, 2026

If you’ve ever wondered, “what percent of my paycheck should go to savings?” there’s a classic rule of thumb that experts have trusted for years: aim for 20% of your take-home pay. Think of it as a solid, reliable target. It’s a fantastic starting point for turning the vague idea of “saving more” into a consistent, wealth-building habit. Breaking Down the 50/30/20 Savings Rule # That 20% figure isn’t just pulled out of thin air. ...