First time starting a real budget

Seeking Advice Forum
1

I sought tips or templates/apps to start making my first real budget. I just moved in with my girlfriend and want to start managing our money to achieve our financial goals. I would love some advice on what budgeting systems work best and take minimal time to maintain.

2

The best advice for me: Write down all your annual expenses with non-monthly installments… tax, insurance, variable charges, birthday gifts, etc. Make an annual total, divide by 12, and save that amount monthly. It really helps to know your real savings capacity.

3

@Frost
Thank you for this. I never thought to do this and just winged it… no wonder I was always poor. I’m going to start today :blush:

4

@Frost
You’re welcome! It’s all about tracking expenses realistically. I love zero-based budgeting—lots of resources online to help you get started.

5

I recommend YNAB (You Need A Budget). It has a learning curve, so watch some YouTube videos first, but it’s worth it! They offer a 34-day free trial.

6

I find having separate accounts for different purposes helps a lot… like one for food, one for bills, etc. It keeps things clear and makes budgeting more fun.

7

I use the Beyond Budget app—it’s simple and has a lifetime subscription option.

8

Hollis said:
I use the Beyond Budget app—it’s simple and has a lifetime subscription option.

How much is the lifetime? Sounds better than yearly subscriptions.

9

Leith said:

Hollis said:
I use the Beyond Budget app—it’s simple and has a lifetime subscription option.

How much is the lifetime? Sounds better than yearly subscriptions.

I paid $39.99 during a discount. It was originally $60.

10

You can use this free and open-source software to help: download the latest version. It includes a 75-page User Manual and Quick Tutorial. Here’s the link: Releases - claude_dumas/gbp - Codeberg.org.

11

Congrats on the new place! Starting a budget is a smart move. I used Habit Money—it sends reminders and helps track spending without being overwhelming.

12

Hollis said:
Congrats on the new place! Starting a budget is a smart move. I used Habit Money—it sends reminders and helps track spending without being overwhelming.

Thanks! I saw Habit while looking around. I went with YNAB since they gave me a year free as a student, but I’ll keep Habit in mind!