Why fixed costs, not income
Your buffer must cover what you cannot pause: rent, health premiums, insurance, food, transport. Calculating from fixed costs gives a precise, personal target – often CHF 10,000–20,000 for a Swiss household – rather than a vague salary multiple.
Where to keep it
A separate savings account at your bank is fine: instant access beats yield here. Don't invest the buffer – its job is being boring and available on the worst day.
Build it as a fixed line
Automate a monthly transfer until the target is reached, then redirect that amount to longer-term goals.
Track these costs in your own budget: create your free Swiss budget in BudgetHub – in English, with Swiss categories built in.