Budget Calculator
Track monthly cash flow, see where your money goes, and compare your breakdown against the 50/30/20 budget rule.
Monthly Budget Calculator
Use this calculator to map your monthly income against spending and savings categories. It helps you quickly see whether you are operating at a surplus or deficit.
How to Use the 50/30/20 Rule
The 50/30/20 framework is a practical starting point: around 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings or accelerated debt paydown. Your ideal mix can vary by goals and cost of living.
What Counts as Needs vs Wants
Needs include essential bills like housing, groceries, transportation, insurance, and minimum debt payments. Wants are flexible lifestyle expenses. Savings includes investments, emergency fund contributions, and extra debt payments.
Why Cash Flow Matters
Positive monthly cash flow means you are spending less than you earn. Negative cash flow is a signal to reduce expenses, increase income, or both before debt grows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good monthly budget structure?
A common baseline is 50% needs, 30% wants, and 20% savings/debt acceleration.
How do I calculate monthly cash flow?
Subtract all monthly outflows from your monthly take-home income.
Should debt payments count as needs?
Minimum debt payments are usually needs; extra principal is often tracked with savings goals.
Can this work with irregular income?
Yes. Use an average of recent months to reduce swings in your plan.