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How to Design Free Home Budget Spreadsheets

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By jenstewart
User-Submitted Article
(0 Ratings)
free home budget spreadsheets
free home budget spreadsheets

Using free spreadsheets to manage your home finances is a great way to keep track of family spending and budget your money. These free spreadsheets are versatile for all your budget needs.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • computer (internet ready)
  • pen
  • paper
  • budget calculator
  • spreadsheet program like excel
  1. Step 1

    First decide on a budget template for your home budget spreadsheets.

  2. Step 2

    Budget templates can be downloaded free on the internet or you can design your own format using excel tailored to meet your home budget.

  3. Step 3

    Next list all your income and expenses and decide on a schedule for your free home budget spreadsheets.

  4. Step 4

    If you are a dual income home you might divide your budget in two or combine the incomes to chart your budget spreadsheets monthly.

  5. Step 5

    Prioritize expenses in your home into budget categories on your free spreadsheets.

  6. Step 6

    Start with fixed amounts necessary to pay like mortgage, insurance, etc.

  7. Step 7

    Next categorize other needs in the home like utilities, groceries, etc. that are free to vary monthly.

  8. Step 8

    List all other personal needs and periodic expenses like home cleaning and maintenance, school, pet, clothing, etc. as discretionary expenses.

  9. Step 9

    Make a home budget category called emergency savings at the end of your spreadsheets to budget for unexpected purchases and to save money.

  10. Step 10

    Now subtract your fixed necessities and monthly home needs from your starting income and use the balance remaining for discretionary spending and savings.

Tips & Warnings
  • Record two amounts (Projected and Actual) for each home budget category on your spreadsheets.
  • Be conservative with income projections and generous for expense allotment.
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