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Budgeting Software Options

When it comes to money management and computer software two programs quickly come to mind: Microsoft Money and Quicken. While these programs are good, I have used both of them, I still find that there are things that I wish I could change about the programs. If you feel this way it may mean that it is time to start thinking outside of the computer budget box. One option that you can do is create your own zero dollar budget online using Excel. If you do this you should have a basic understanding of spreadsheets and what you can accomplish … Continue reading →

Is Your Budget Set in Stone?

One mistake that many people make is thinking that their budget is set in stone. This can be an easy mistake to make. The reason it can backfire is that once you have gone over in a category, many people think they have blown the entire month, and then stop worrying about the money they are spending. It is important to realize that you can adjust your budget throughout the month, so that you never spend more than you make. You should have some categories that will cover unexpected expenses. This may be an invitation for your child to attend … Continue reading →

Budget Strategies: 5 Tips to Help You Stick to Your Budget

You sat down wrote out your budget and you have your financial goals in front of you. Theoretically, you should be able to reach them by the end of the year, if you stick to your budget. But every time you are out, you are faced with the temptation to spend just a little bit more than you had planned on. It doesn’t seem like that ten dollars will hurt anything, right? It is only ten dollars. But do that several times and you’ve gone and blown the budget. Here are some tips to keep you motivated to stick to … Continue reading →

Budget Strategies: Budgeting a Variable Income

If you have a variable income, it can be tricky to set up a budget. You may have difficulty knowing what you can afford each month. If you work solely on commission it can be even more difficult to plan a budget. Here are some basic tips to get you started. 1) If you receive a base salary plus commission, construct your budget entirely on your base salary. This should cover your basic necessities (mortgage/rent, utilities, and food), and then from there you can prioritize your other obligations. 2) If you have a paycheck that varies from week to week … Continue reading →

Budget Strategies: The Zero Dollar Budget

You may have heard of a zero dollar budget, but are not sure what that means. A zero dollar budget means that you spend every dollar on paper before the month begins. This way you have assigned an amount to each of your expenses. Once you have reached the limit you stop spending in that category. This budget works well with the envelope system. It is important to realize that you can adjust the amounts that you spend during the month. For example if your entire family ends up with strep throat you may overspend in the medical category. You … Continue reading →