Mainly PTF but I'll throw in my #s also. I'm building a stache of 3 months' gross earnings (17,500), which also equals at least 6 months' expenses. I also have a high yield savings account currently at 1.6%. I originally arrived at this # because the longest I have ever been unemployed is 2 months. I've changed jobs a few times over the past few years (classic millennial jobhoppery). However, I was never actually looking for a job each of the times I left, they all just came to me. I mention that because your EF # should be related to your industry and prospects of easily finding a job if the worst was to happen by being fired or laid off.