More In How to Budget
Smarting From a Shrunken Paycheck? 5 Tips to Soften the Blow
The Right Way to Set Financial Goals
How to Find Your First Apartment in 10 Steps
10 Ways Your Budget Needs to Change in 2013
Latest On LearnVest
4 Crafty Ways to Scope Out a Potential Employer
Need to Split the Check? There Are 5 Apps for That
How Do You Get Your Child Support Money?
5 Steps to a Smart Spending Plan
Here’s another smart post from our friends at SavvySugar. Check it out:
Straightforward budgets aren’t always the best solution for people trying to get a handle on their money—the inflexible nature of budgeting can be a frustrating turn-off. But just because you’re not one for budgets doesn’t mean there isn’t hope for following a plan that will get your finances on track.
A spending plan is a better solution than a traditional budget for those who want a less rigid method for managing their money. Give your dollars some direction and take control by taking these five simple steps for creating a spending plan.
1. Calculate
Determine your discretionary income with a quick calculation: Take your monthly income after taxes and subtract your fixed expenses like rent, insurance, and bills. The money left over is your discretionary income.
2. Think Ahead
Look in to the near future and pick out any expenses on the horizon like vacations, gifts, appliance replacements, etc.
3. Save
Set aside a certain amount of your discretionary income for savings and for the things you identified as future expenses. The beauty of a spending plan is that it is flexible—you can always increase the amount of personal savings you set aside if one of the projected expenses falls through (like if you needed a new microwave, but your sister gave you her old one).
4. Make a List
After you’ve deducted the amount you plan to save from your discretionary income, make a list of your needs and wants and prioritize within the list.
5. Keep Track
Keep track of your discretionary spending by checking off any needs or wants that have been fulfilled. This way, you can decide on the fly if you are able to go to a concert with friends. You might be able to re-prioritize and save some of those wants and needs for next month. It’s an easy way to get a clear picture of what you can and can’t afford.
More From SavvySugar
What Not to Ask Your Pregnant Coworker
11 Simple Tips for Bedroom Organization
5 Common Negative Thoughts and How to Beat Them
