How much cash should I keep at home for an emergency?
Why keep cash at all?
In a power cut, card machines, cash points and phone banking can all stop. Shops that stay open may only take cash. A small amount at home means you can still buy food, fuel or medicine for a few days.
Work out your amount
We have not found an official figure, so we suggest working it out from your own spending. The government asks households to be ready for at least three days, so we use three.
- Think about what your household spends on food and basics in a normal week. Leave out rent, bills and anything you pay by direct debit.
- Divide that by 7. This is roughly one day.
- Multiply by 3. This is your three-day amount.
What kind of cash
- Small notes and coins. Shops may not have change.
- Not all in one place. Keep some in your grab bag if you have one.
- Somewhere safe and dry, that everyone at home knows about.
Check your home insurance
Many home insurance policies only cover a small amount of cash. Check your policy so you know what is covered if it is lost or stolen.
Make it part of your plan
Cash is one item on a short list. Make your own plan to see what else your home needs for a power cut.
See what your own home needs
Answer about 20 quick questions and get a plan for your household. Free, about 10 minutes, nothing stored.
Questions people ask
Is there an official amount of cash to keep at home?
We have not found one. That is why we suggest working it out from what your household spends in a normal week, for three days.
Should I keep more than three days' worth?
Three days is a sensible start. If you are planning for longer disruption, you could build up a little more over time. Check what your home insurance covers first.
Will cash points work in a power cut?
Often not, if the power is off in your area. Some may work if they are somewhere the power is still on.
Do I need coins?
Yes, some. Small shops may not be able to give change.
Related guides
Where this comes from
General guidance, not official advice. In an emergency, follow instructions from emergency services and gov.uk.