If you’ve just started managing your own finances, recommitted to doing it well or noticed your spending isn’t making you as happy as you’d hoped, a budget might be exactly what you need. When you know where your money is going, you’re likely to feel more in control and more confident your finances reflect what actually matters to you.
A simple budgeting framework to start: The 50/30/20 rule
One of the easiest ways to structure a budget is the 50/30/20 rule. The concept is refreshingly straightforward: Put 50% of your after-tax income toward necessities (housing, groceries, utilities, transportation), 30% toward wants (dining out, entertainment, streaming subscriptions) and 20% toward savings or paying down debt.
The 50/30/20 rule is a great foundation, but you may need to adjust it a little. If you live in a high-cost city, housing alone might require more than half your paycheck. Or you may have high income and can save more than 20%. Think of the 50/30/20 rule as a starting point you can adjust as your life evolves.
Not sure where your money goes?
That’s completely normal. If you honestly don’t know what you spend each month, try a low-pressure approach first. Spend a few months simply observing. Check your accounts without judgment, noting money coming in and going out. Think of it as a financial check-in rather than a report card. You can’t change the past, but you can absolutely adjust for the future.
From there, small steps go a long way. Even spending 15 minutes a week on your budget can make the whole process feel far less daunting.
Make technology your easy button
Some budgeting apps do the routine work for you, syncing with your accounts and tracking spending automatically. Others are more hands-on, encouraging you to map out your spending plan in advance. There’s likely one out there for every style of budgeting. The goal is to find a system you’ll actually use and stick with.
When the numbers feel discouraging
Sometimes looking at spending brings up more stress than relief. If that happens, start by shifting your perspective. Focus on the expenses that brought you real value — a modest gift that meant the world to a friend or how your rent provides a comfortable, stable life. Then look for changes that align your spending with your values. Substituting expenses, reducing expenses or creating more income could all be used to help you keep your spending below your income.
Build a buffer
If you can, consider building a small buffer into your budget for unexpected expenses such as birthdays, minor repairs or spontaneous plans. Adding perhaps 3% of your income or a set dollar amount, like $200, helps keep those costs from throwing your whole plan off course.
The bottom line
With a few simple steps, budgeting becomes easier to stick with and more meaningful over time. At its core, it’s a way to align your money with what matters while enjoying today and planning for tomorrow.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Joe Oliver, your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Joe Oliver is a lifelong Oxfordian, husband, father, and financial advisor with Edward Joes Investments. Joe services business owners and individual investors by helping them accomplish their financial goals. For a complimentary financial consultation, connect with Joe at Joe.Oliver@Edwardjones.com.
Joe Oliver, CFP®,AAMS™
Financial Advisor
2250 Baltimore Pike
Oxford, PA 19363
484-702-9311
www.edwardjones.com/joe-oliver
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