clevercoinjar

Coin Jar checklist

16 steps to set up sinking funds and keep them going.

Track your progress with a free accountGet the free Sinking Fund Workbook

The basics

Start here.

  • Understand how a sinking fund works Guide
  • Keep sinking funds separate from your emergency fund Guide
  • Choose your first three jars Guide
  • Choose an insured savings account for your jars Guide

Common jars

As you add them.

  • Add up last year's car costs Guide
  • Plan a holiday and gift jar Guide
  • Start a home repair jar Guide
  • List your annual bills Guide

Set them up

One afternoon.

  • Go through 12 months of statements Guide
  • Work out each jar's monthly amount Guide
  • Set automatic transfers for payday Guide
  • Convert amounts to your pay schedule Guide

Keep them going

All year.

  • Spend from the right jar when a bill comes Guide
  • Plan what to do when a jar falls short Guide
  • Review every jar once a year Guide
  • Send three-paycheck months to your jars Guide