The Zero-Based Budgeting Rule: Assign every dollar until Income − All Expenses = $0
Fill in Planned before the month starts. Fill in Actual as you spend. Check the difference daily.
Step 1 — Monthly Income
Primary income (take-home pay)
Secondary income / side hustle
Partner income (take-home)
Other income (rental, child support, etc.)
TOTAL INCOME
Needs
~50% of income
Essential expenses
Category
Planned
Actual
Diff
Rent / Mortgage
Electricity / Gas
Water
Internet
Phone bill
Groceries
Transportation / Gas
Car insurance
Health insurance
Medications
Childcare
Minimum debt payments
Other need:
Needs Total
Wants
~30% of income
Lifestyle choices
Category
Planned
Actual
Diff
Dining out
Coffee shops
Streaming services
Subscriptions
Clothing
Personal care / beauty
Entertainment
Gym / fitness
Hobbies
Kids activities
Pet expenses
Home decor / misc
Other want:
Wants Total
Savings
Part of 20%
Building future
Category
Planned
Actual
Diff
Emergency fund
Retirement / 401k
House down payment
Vacation fund
Car repair fund
Christmas / gifts fund
Other goal:
Savings Total
Debt Payoff
Part of 20%
Extra above minimums
Debt Name
Planned
Actual
Diff
Credit card 1
Credit card 2
Student loan
Car loan
Personal loan
Medical debt
Other debt:
Debt Total
Monthly Budget Summary
Total Income
Total Needs
Total Wants
Savings + Debt
Income − (Needs + Wants + Savings + Debt) =
Should equal $0
Monthly Notes & Adjustments