It’s not uncommon to think about how to budget money. Maybe you already wonder about your best approach. You may have debt you need to pay down or you could have a different goal such as saving for a vacation, building an emergency fund, or buying a new home. Whatever the reason, you might be thinking about how to manage money wisely.
Money management usually includes budgeting. Or put another way, tracking and balancing the money you earn and spend. We’ve got some suggestions to help you learn how to budget and possibly save money.
What is a budget?
A budget details your monthly income and expenses to enable you to plan for your spending, savings, and debt paydown. A budget might be adjusted in the short term for a specific goal, such as a big purchase or holiday. Or it might be designed to help you meet long-term goals such as paying down debt, saving for a new home or retirement, or building an emergency fund.
Managing your personal finances with a budget may help keep you on the right path as you work toward your goals. Here are nine tips for how to make a budget plan.
1. Figure out your income
Make a list of all the money you bring in each month. Be sure to include things like your regular paycheck and any income from savings, government programs, or other sources. You’ll want to look at your net pay, the amount you receive after any taxes or benefits payments have been deducted. If you have a side hustle, such as babysitting or dog walking, be sure to add that to the list.
2. Make a list of all your expenses
Next, figure out where your money goes. Take stock of what you spend regularly. Be thoughtful, as this should include everything: rent or mortgage, utilities, phone, internet, streaming services, groceries, takeout, childcare, gifts, medical expenses, insurance, etc.
3. Decide what’s really important
Now it’s time to separate your nice-to-haves from your need-to-haves. Before trimming your spending, it is important to identify those things you really need. That might include housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, clothing, medical expenses, and auto and homeowner’s or rental insurance.
Once you’ve noted your nonnegotiables, you can start to frame out a budget. Your budget plan might, for example, follow the 50/30/20 rule. With this approach, 50% of your take-home pay goes to basic living expenses like rent or mortgage, groceries, and utilities. Then 30% goes to extras or “wants” like dining out, entertainment, and vacations. The remaining 20% goes to paying off debt, savings, retirement, and/or charitable giving.
4. Write down your financial goals
Grab a pen and some paper, or your laptop, and think about why you want to manage your money better. Take notes as you lay out your goals.
Maybe you have specific projects you are hoping to start. Or you could have debt you want to pay down. You might need to build an emergency fund.
If you are saving for retirement, note how much you put into your 401(k) or other retirement funds each month. Consult with a professional to determine whether it meets your long-term goal.
Be sure to include any other expenses that you might be able to anticipate, such as vacation or medical costs.
5. Build a budget that makes sense for you
With the information you have collected about your income and expenses, you can begin to create your budget. Whatever you do, try to set a realistic plan that you can maintain. Your success in sticking to a budget might provide additional motivation to improve your finances, as well as help you achieve your long-term goals.
As part of your budget planning, don’t forget the possibility of unexpected expenses such as home repairs or car troubles. For these sudden expenses, you will want to think about building up your emergency savings.
“Building an emergency fund is a great start toward good money management,” said Todd Keffury, CRPC, EA, owner of a financial planning firm based in Las Vegas, Nevada. “While no one knows how much an unexpected event will cost, you can plan your saving process with concrete targets in mind.”
6. Hunt for additional savings
No matter how well you manage your money, you may benefit from reducing your spending. You might plan to treat yourself without reaching for your wallet. Game nights, picnics, and free museum days can all be fun, affordable ways to spend time with friends and family. Avoiding impulse purchases and managing your existing subscriptions might also help.
You might also consider a personal loan for debt consolidation. When you consolidate higher-interest debt into a personal loan, you could simplify your budget by having just one set regular monthly payment. You might also be able to save money on interest and pay off your debt faster. To see how much you may be able to save with a Discover® personal loan, try our online debt consolidation calculator.
7. Track your progress and enjoy your success
To help you stick to your savings goals, you could automate the amount you save each month. With automatic savings deposits, you may be less tempted to change your mind or spend that money elsewhere. Even a seemingly small amount, like $10–$50 per month, might be a place to start.
To help keep track of your finances, think about creating a calendar entry for when your regular expenses are due and check them off as they are paid. Then, check your accounts each month and note the change in your balances. This may help you monitor your progress. If you prefer, you could try an app or spreadsheet for budgeting or expense tracking to keep an eye on the money coming in and going out. Whatever method you use, focusing on your progressmay help to ensure that your budget has you moving in the right direction.
No one said building a budget and staying within it would be a breeze. As you proceed, look for ways that may make it easier for you. Be sure to celebrate your successes as you progress.
8. Adjust your plan if needed
Life happens. Understand that no budget is set in stone. Maybe you enjoyed a pay raise. If so, congratulations. You might consider using some of that extra money to increase your savings. Have you run into a financial bump in the road? Take a deep breath and look for ways to adjust your budget to balance your income and expenses for the time you need to regain your footing.
9. Stick with it
You will have months when you do not meet your goals, but don’t give up. “Your savings will be there for any of life’s unexpected twists.” said Keffury. “And there is little else that can bring more peace of mind.” Whatever happens, be patient and see your plan through.
Learning how to manage money wisely takes practice. Just keep your goals in mind. If you do, you could be on your way to living your best life—and doing it within your budget.
If you are wondering how you can get started and tackle some of your immediate expenses, check out some additional tips that may help you pay off your debt more quickly.Find Out How to Pay Off Debt Fast
What is a budget?
A budget details your monthly income and expenses to enable you to plan for your spending, savings, and debt paydown over the course of a month, a year, or another set period of time.
What is the purpose of a budget?
A budget could help you maintain financial control and may keep you on the path to reaching your financial goals.
How do I start a budget?
As a first step, calculate how much money you have coming in each month and how much you spend to pay for essential needs, to make optional purchases, and to save for the future.
What is the 50/30/20 rule?
This rule is intended as a simple budgeting method that may help you control your finances. The goal is to devote 50% of your income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings.
