How much do I need for a 6-month sabbatical?

Calculate: (Monthly Expenses × 6) + (3 months emergency buffer) + (Health insurance × 6). For $3,500/month expenses: ($3,500 × 6) + ($3,500 × 3) + ($500 × 6) = $21,000 + $10,500 + $3,000 = $34,500. Budget $30-40k for a comfortable 6-month sabbatical.

Should I quit or take unpaid leave for a sabbatical?

Unpaid leave is usually better: you keep your job, benefits often continue, and you have guaranteed income when you return. Many companies offer 4-12 weeks unpaid leave. If your company doesn't offer this, negotiate - the cost of replacing you often exceeds unpaid leave costs.

How do I handle health insurance during sabbatical?

Options: 1) COBRA (expensive, $500-700/month, but continues existing coverage), 2) ACA Marketplace (income-based, often cheaper if no income), 3) Spouse's plan if married, 4) Short-term health insurance (limited coverage). Don't go uninsured - one medical emergency can drain sabbatical savings.

What's the best length for a sabbatical?

Depends on your goals. 3 months: good for travel or intensive learning, minimal career impact. 6 months: enough to truly decompress, learn new skills, or travel extensively. 12 months: significant life change, may affect career momentum. Most people find 3-6 months ideal balance.

Financial Scenario

Sabbatical Calculator: How Much Do You Need for a Career Break?

A sabbatical can be life-changing - time to travel, learn new skills, spend with family, or simply rest. But it requires financial planning. Use this calculator to determine how much you need for a 3, 6, or 12-month career break and whether your current savings are sufficient.

Key Facts

3-month sabbatical: ~$10-15k needed

6-month sabbatical: ~$20-30k needed

12-month sabbatical: ~$40-60k needed

Add 3-month emergency buffer to sabbatical fund

Consider health insurance costs ($400-600/month)

Many employers offer unpaid leave options

Calculate How Long Your Money Will Last

Enter your savings and expenses for a quick estimate

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