Figure out the real cost of hitting pause — and how to make it happen
Whether it's a 3-month reset or a full year off, this calculator helps you see exactly what it takes.
No guessing, no spreadsheets — just honest numbers so you can plan your break with confidence.
What do you want to find out?
1. Your break
How long do you want to step away?
What you've set aside (or could set aside) for this
2. Monthly costs during your break
Rent, food, transport, everything — what it costs you to live each month
No employer coverage during a break — budget for private plans
If you're planning to travel during your break
3. The costs people forget
These are the expenses that catch people off guard. Toggle them on or off and adjust the amounts.
Emergency bufferUnexpected expenses — car repair, medical, etc.
Return-to-work bufferLiving expenses while you job search after the break
Keep investing (RRSP/TFSA)Optional — continue retirement contributions during the break
4. Income during your break (optional)
Will you have any money coming in? Even a little income stretches your break significantly.
Consulting, contract work, gig income
If eligible — max ~$2,500/mo (2025)
Percentage of your monthly costs covered by a partner
Rental income, dividends, side projects
Your Career Break Number
$0
total savings needed
Living costs during break$0
Emergency buffer$0
Return-to-work buffer$0
Continued investing$0
Income during break-$0
Total Needed$0
Monthly burn rate: $0/mo (after income)
If you save $1,000/mo, you could take this break in —.
0 months
maximum break duration
Start0 months
Available savings$0
Less: emergency buffer-$0
Less: return-to-work buffer-$0
Spendable on the break$0
Monthly burn rate: $0/mo (after income)
Your savings leave very little room for surprises. Consider building a larger buffer before taking the leap.
What moves the needle
Assumptions & methodology
No investment returns are assumed on your break savings — this is conservative by design.
Health & dental insurance costs vary widely across Canada. Budget $150–$350/mo for a private plan without employer coverage.
EI eligibility depends on your situation — you may not qualify if you quit voluntarily. Check Service Canada for details.
The emergency buffer is separate from your break spending — it's a safety net for genuine surprises.
The return-to-work buffer covers living costs while you're job hunting. The average Canadian job search takes 1–3 months.
All amounts are in Canadian dollars (CAD).
This calculator is a planning tool, not financial advice. Talk to a financial planner before making major changes.
Tip: Try both modes — figure out your number, then check how long your current savings would actually last.
Thinking about a career break?
A good financial plan makes bold moves possible — let's figure out your timeline together.