Category: Budgeting

Coming up with useful budget categories can be a challenge. Especially if you’re like me, and can see relationships between pretty much everything.

But grouping your spending by category can make things so much easier down the road.

Why? Because you’re less likely to let important things slip through the cracks, or to be hit with surprise or irregular expenses.

To make the whole process easier, here’s a list of some of the most common budget categories for you, followed by tips on using them.
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“Track your spending!” they say. “It’s so important!”

And so maybe you dutifully add up all of your expenses at the end of the month. (Or maybe you don’t.)

But here’s the thing:

• Do you know why tracking your spending is so important?
• And do you know how to track your spending so that it makes a difference in your life?

If your answers to those questions are no, you’re not alone.
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The best home budgeting software and budgeting tools can help you track spending and monitor your goal progress. There are many free and premium apps out there that cater to (almost) any budget style.

They’re especially useful if you need help making a spending plan or figuring out how best to save for a large purchase. (Most of us are great at making goals like those, but need help starting a new routine and following through.)

Maybe you’re not sure if you like spreadsheets, money envelopes, or a basic spending comparison tool more. Those are all types of home budgeting software that can can help you manage your money better.

(Note: Any prices are accurate as of the original publication date, but always check for current pricing as they may change.)

With that said, here’s a list of some of the best home budgeting software to choose from.
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What happens if you make a good income but can’t get ahead? (Or even fall further and further behind each month?)

Andy from Marriage Kids and Money recently discussed a question of the month from Julie that covered exactly that. She and her husband make a good income, but can’t get ahead. And she is clearly frustrated — both with the personal finance world and the current economy.

You can read her full question & Andy’s response here (and listen to the podcast) but I’m going to pull a few things from the question to respond to here. Because I have a lot to add.

Fair warning: there’s some tough love coming in this post. But I’ve also got some specific ideas that could help, plus food for thought in general.
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