thepenniesbudget

First Budget checklist

15 steps from "where does it all go?" to a budget you actually use. One step at a time is fine.

Track your progress with a free accountGet the free Budget Starter Sheets

Know your numbers

A week or two of looking before you plan.

  • Work out your monthly take-home pay Guide
  • Track every purchase for 30 days Guide
  • Sort spending into needs, wants and savings Guide
  • List every bill with its due date Guide

Make the plan

Pick a method and write it down.

  • Choose a budget method that suits you Guide
  • Write your first monthly budget Guide
  • Turn yearly bills into monthly amounts Guide
  • Give yourself some no-questions-asked money Guide

Save automatically

Saving works best when you don't have to remember.

  • Set up an automatic transfer on payday Guide
  • Do a subscription check and cancel one thing Guide
  • Add one speed bump against impulse buys Guide

Keep it going

The habit matters more than the spreadsheet.

  • Hold your first monthly check-in Guide
  • Adjust one category that didn't fit Guide
  • If you share money, agree on shared goals Guide
  • Stick with it for three months Guide