One of the best ways to take charge of your finances in today's uncertain economy is to accumulate a healthy savings account. Nobody wants to feel the stress of knowing that they are only a paycheck or two away from financial disaster because they lack money to fall back on when "stuff happens." Specific examples include job loss, disability, a car breakdown, a sick child or pet, and other types of financial emergencies. Saving provides a financial "backstop" for life's uncertainties and increases feelings of security and peace of mind. Once an adequate emergency fund is established, savings can also provide the "seed money" for higher-yielding investments such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.