Sinking fund ideas: 12 jars and how to size them

You don't need all twelve. Start with the three or four that catch you out most often, and add more once those are running smoothly.

Car insurance

Covers: Premiums paid every six or twelve months.

How to size it: Your last premium, divided by the months between payments.

Covers: Registration, inspection, oil changes, tires and repairs.

How to size it: Last year's non-monthly car costs, divided by 12.

Covers: Gifts, food, travel and decorations, plus birthdays.

How to size it: A list of people and a budget for each, plus extras.

Covers: Appliances, fixes and maintenance.

How to size it: Owners often aim for about 1% of the home's value a year; renters, a smaller amount.

Covers: Yearly subscriptions, memberships and dues.

How to size it: Add up every bill that comes once a year.

Covers: Deductibles, copays, glasses and dental work.

How to size it: Last year's out-of-pocket costs, or your plan's deductible.

Covers: Trips, including getting there and staying.

How to size it: Price the trip, then divide by the months until you go.

Covers: Supplies, clothes, fees and activities.

How to size it: Last year's spending, plus a little for growth.

Covers: Vet visits, vaccines, grooming and boarding.

How to size it: Last year's vet and care costs, divided by 12.

Covers: Seasonal clothes, shoes and coats.

How to size it: What you spent last year on clothes, divided by 12.

Covers: Replacing a phone or laptop.

How to size it: Price of the replacement, divided by the months you expect it to last.

Covers: A future move, a new lease or deposits.

How to size it: Deposit, first month's rent and moving costs.

General information, not financial advice. Keep an emergency fund separate for true surprises.