Why Budgets Fail: 8 Beginner Mistakes and Fixes
Why do budgets fail? Usually not your income, but quitting early plus fixable setup errors. Here are 8 common beginner mistakes and how to fix them.
budgeting basics
What to Do at the End of Month One (Budget Review)
Your first month’s numbers were probably off. Here is the five-step review checklist and how to tell a bad number from a bad habit.
How to Budget as a Couple With Different Incomes
Splitting 50/50, by income, or through a joint account all work differently. See a worked example and why the needs-vs-wants talk matters more.
The 50/30/20 Rule Explained (With a Real Example)
The 50/30/20 rule splits your take-home pay into 50% needs, 30% wants, and 20% savings. See a worked example, plus when it does not fit.
Budgeting for Beginners: Take Control of Your Money
New to budgeting? Learn what a budget really is, the 3 things every budget needs, and how to choose the method that fits you. No jargon.
How Much Should Your Emergency Fund Be?
The commonly cited range is 3 to 6 months of expenses. Here is who says so, why the range is wide, and three questions to place yourself in it.
Sinking Fund vs Emergency Fund: Two Different Jobs
A sinking fund is for the expense you can see coming. An emergency fund is for the one you cannot. Here is how to tell them apart and use both.
Pay Yourself First Budgeting: The Ordering Rule
Pay yourself first is about order, not amount. Learn the rule, the typical percentage ranges cited by banks, and what to do if your number is small.
The Cash Envelope Method, Explained Without Apps
How the cash envelope budgeting method actually works, which categories belong in it, and a tool-free way to get the same discipline without cash.
Should You Budget Gross or Net Income?
Budget from your net (take-home) pay, not your gross salary. Here is why, what net quietly includes, and what to do when it changes every check.