Budget Tracking & Adjustment
This playbook outlines a procedure for monitoring spending patterns and amending your budget to maintain financial stability. It is aimed at providing strategies to ensure personal finance goals are met through careful expenditure monitoring and budget modifications.
Step 1: Setup Tools
Choose and set up the tools or apps you will use to track your spending, such as a spreadsheet, budgeting software, or financial apps.
Step 2: Document Income
Record all sources of income including salary, any side jobs, or passive income streams for the budget period.
Step 3: Categorize Expenses
List all expenses and categorize them into fixed (e.g., rent, loan payments) and variable (e.g., dining out, groceries) costs.
Step 4: Record Spending
Track all spending in real-time or at least once a week, so you don't miss any expenses, including those paid in cash.
Step 5: Review Regularly
At regular intervals (weekly/monthly), review your recorded income and expenses to evaluate your spending habits.
Step 6: Compare with Budget
Compare your actual spending with your budgeted amounts to see if you are staying on track or if you need to make adjustments.
Step 7: Adjust Budget
If necessary, adjust your budget by reducing variable expenses or finding ways to increase income to ensure your spending does not exceed your budget.
Step 8: Set Goals
Set financial goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) to keep you motivated and on track with your spending.
Step 9: Monitor Progress
Consistently monitor your progress towards your goals, and adjust your strategies as needed to ensure success.
General Notes
Emergency Fund
Always aim to have an emergency fund in your budget for unforeseen expenses to avoid disrupting your budget heavily.
Behavioral Changes
Be aware that tracking spending can often lead to behavioral changes; simply being aware of where money goes can encourage more thoughtful spending.
Rewards
Consider rewarding yourself for staying within budget, but ensure rewards do not negatively impact your financial goals.