Basic But Effective Monthly Budgeting Worksheet
I got this basic worksheet from TRowePrice and decided to pass it along to those of you looking for a simple yet effective budgeting plan to start down your road of financial responsibility! Just fill in the blanks and see where you stand. Here goes:
1. TOTAL MONTHLY INCOME
After Taxes = $0.00
Then, start subtracting:
2. FIXED EXPENSES
Rent, Mortgage = $0.00
Loan Repayments = $0.00
3. INVESTMENT GOALS
Emergency Fund = $0.00
Retirement Plan Contributions = $0.00
College Savings Plan Contributions = $0.00
Other Savings = $0.00
4. VARIABLE EXPENSES
Utilities and other household bills = $0.00
Food = $0.00
Transportation = $0.00
Clothing = $0.00
Leisure = $0.00
Charity = $0.00
Misc = $0.00
So, take numbers 2, 3 and 4, add them up, and subtract them from number 1. Where do you stand? Are you negative or positive? I know this is basic, but it can give you a general idea as to where you need to re-arrange your finances to make ends meet, and where you could save more or spend less. Hope it help!
“Most people leave it too late before getting debt help. A new credit card or secured loan are probably not the answer.”
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Matt | Dec 21, 2006 | Reply
I’ve been doing something similar it’s a rather effective way to keep myself in check. Added to this I track my expenses down to the last penny. Again this lets me know where I’m spending too much money (on say going out for example). But I like what you posed, simplicity rules.