How Long Can You Survive Without Income Between Jobs?

Runway is net of job-hunt costs

Months of expenses in the bank is the starting point. Add interview travel, skills courses, temporary medical aid if cover lapsed, and higher stress spending — runway burns faster than spreadsheets suggest.

Three months of essential expenses is minimum; six to twelve is prudent in a slow hiring market.

Debt service does not pause

Bond, vehicle and credit agreements continue. Renegotiate payment holidays before you miss — proactive contact preserves credit score.

Avoid new debt to fund the gap unless the role certainty is high and start date is confirmed.

Model the gap explicitly

MyGenie's Changing Jobs event compares packages and shows household surplus or deficit during a transition — use it before you hand in notice.

This article is illustrative and educational. It is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures are examples only — model your own situation in MyGenie or speak to a licensed financial adviser.