By PV Subramanyam

Income: Rs 100, expenses
Rs 99, life is fine. 

Income: Rs 99, expenses
Rs 100, life is in despair.

(Due apologies to Charles Dickens!)

There used to be a time when it was advisable to have regular health checkups when you 45. Now, it's closer to 30. But there are no dates when it comes to a financial checkup; it's a must-do right from the day you take up a job, or a loan.

What is your breaking point?
What would happen if you got a big bill for an unexpected expense? Like the proverbial camel, will this be the straw that will break you?

If you are on a tight leash -- say your EMI eats up 45% of your take-home pay -- even a small increase in the floating rate can be the last straw. 

But if you are on solid footing, you can shoulder daily bills as well as afford, for example, unforeseen auto expenses.

If you are not feeling too confident, it is time to take a closer look at your lifestyle. You may be comfortable today, but if a single expense is all that stands between you and financial disaster, you are heading for trouble. And you need to take steps to avert it.

How long can you survive sans salary?
What would happen if your next salary cheque does not come in? Or even worse, your company told you a great tax saving device – of being on contract? This means a stroke of jaundice or a fracture can mean no income for a month at least!

Will you be evicted from your house? Will the bank foreclose your home loan? Can you afford to send money to your parents? Or to a younger sibling whose education you are funding?

More importantly, how long can you afford groceries? If you cannot live for at least four to six months if you suddenly stop collecting your salary, you have a problem that needs some serious attention.

Create an emergency fund. This is a critical part of a sound financial plan. Put three to six months worth of your income in the bank (floating rate mutual fund for some people).

This is a great way to have cash on hand. It also gives you some breathing room in case your income comes to a temporary halt.

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The author is a financial domain trainer. He can be reached at pv.subramanyam@moneycontrol.com.