Budget Calculator
Free Budget Calculator for financial. Enter your values to compare options, see amortization, and plan smarter. Free, formula-verified, no signup needed.
Formula
Remaining = Income - Total Expenses
Track all income and expenses to see what remains. Aim for positive cash flow with 20%+ going to savings.
Worked Examples
Example 1: 50/30/20 Budget
Problem:Apply 50/30/20 to $4,000 monthly income.
Solution:Needs (50%): $2,000\n- Housing: $1,200\n- Utilities: $150\n- Food: $400\n- Transport: $250\n\nWants (30%): $1,200\n- Entertainment, dining, hobbies\n\nSavings (20%): $800
Result:$2,000 needs, $1,200 wants, $800 savings
Example 2: Emergency Fund
Problem:Monthly expenses $3,500. How much for 6-month emergency fund?
Solution:Emergency fund = Monthly expenses × 6\n= $3,500 × 6\n= $21,000\n\nSave $500/month = 42 months\nSave $1,000/month = 21 months
Result:$21,000 target
Example 3: Housing Affordability
Problem:Income $6,000/month. Max housing budget?
Solution:28% rule: $6,000 × 0.28 = $1,680\n\n25% of take-home (after 25% taxes):\n$4,500 × 0.25 = $1,125\n\nAim for $1,125-$1,680/month including utilities.
Result:$1,125-$1,680/month
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I budget with irregular income?
Budget based on lowest expected income. When income is higher, prioritize: 1) essentials, 2) emergency fund, 3) debt, 4) savings. Build larger emergency fund (6+ months).
Should I include debt payments in my budget?
Yes! List minimum payments in fixed expenses. Allocate extra to highest-interest debt (avalanche) or smallest balance (snowball). Track separately from regular spending.
How often should I review my budget?
Weekly for tracking, monthly for adjustments, quarterly for major review. Life changes (job, move, family) require immediate budget revision. Stay flexible.
What if I can't stick to my budget?
Be realistic—too strict fails. Build in fun money. Use percentages, not fixed amounts. Identify triggers for overspending. Celebrate small wins. Adjust categories as needed.