Sinking funds tracker
Twelve funds on one page, with a box for every month.
A sinking fund is money you save a little at a time for a cost you know is coming: car registration, a birthday, a vet visit, back-to-school. Divide the cost by the months you have left and set that amount aside each month.
This page tracks up to twelve funds. Each has a goal, a due date, a monthly amount and a box for every month of the year.
How it works
A sinking fund is money you save a little at a time for a cost you know is coming. Divide the cost by the months until you need it and save that amount each month. This sheet tracks up to twelve funds with a box for each month.
| Fund | Goal | Months | Each month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car registration | $180 | 6 | $30 |
| Christmas | $900 | 12 | $75 |
| Vet visit | $600 | 12 | $50 |
| Back to school | $300 | 6 | $50 |
How to use it
- Name each fund and write its goal and the date you need it.
- Divide the goal by the months until then. That is your monthly amount.
- Each month, set the money aside and tick that month’s box.
Ways to use it
- Open separate savings "pots" or accounts, one per fund.
- Review in January and set new goals for the year.
- Use it with cash envelopes for funds you spend in cash.
Tips
- Common funds: car repairs, insurance, gifts, holidays, pets, home repairs, travel, school.
- Many banks let you open several savings "pots" or accounts for free, one per fund.
Questions
What are sinking funds?
Money you set aside in small amounts for a known future cost, like gifts, car repairs or insurance, so it does not become an emergency.
How many sinking funds should I have?
Most people start with three to six for their biggest irregular costs, then add more as needed.
What is the difference between a sinking fund and an emergency fund?
A sinking fund is for a cost you expect; an emergency fund is for surprises.
Goes well with
- Christmas 2027 sinking fund Save a little every month so next December is already paid for.
- Emergency fund tracker Start with $1,000, then build to three months of expenses.
More bills & sinking funds
This printable is a general planning tool, not financial advice. Read the full disclaimer.