A data storage device and method for preventing data loss during an ungraceful shutdown are provided. In one embodiment, a data storage device is provided comprising a volatile memory; a non-volatile memory; and a controller. The controller is configured to detect an ungraceful shutdown; and in response to detecting the ungraceful shutdown: generate a reduced set of parity bits for data stored in the volatile memory, wherein the reduced set of parity bits comprises fewer parity bits than a full set of parity bits used in a graceful shutdown; and store the data and the reduced set of parity bits in the non-volatile memory. Other embodiments are possible, and each of the embodiments can be used alone or together in combination.