The sample budget below is from the Self-Reliance Personal Finance manual. Note that aside from the net income (in) and expense columns (out), there is a type column listed. This is to mark if a budget item is a “fixed” or “variable” expense. Fixed expenses are the same each month, whereas variable expenses can fluctuate. You may also wish to further mark which expenses are mandatory non-negotiable “needs” vs what items are optional or ideal “wants.” Note that this example is shown in category format, whereas the raw data of your budget may be further itemized.
Apps are a very common way to budget and record expenses. There are many free online resources. This US News article covers some top options. One of the most common apps is MINT, which is excellent.
“As you put together your budget, you may find that you have more in expenses than income. If this is your situation, you are not alone. And this is a problem you can solve. There are two ways to fix this challenge: Earn more income, or spend less money.” – Self Reliance Personal Finance manual
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