How to Make a Budget – Estimate Variable Expenses

Setting a BudgetA variable expense fluctuates and is not usually a monthly expense, but comes often at unforeseen times and can stress your monthly budget. People often end up putting variable expenses on credit cards which can get them into trouble when they start piling up. Variable expenses include clothing, visits to the doctor or dentist, automobile maintenance, vacations, gifts for friends or family, and so on. These types of expenses can be difficult to get a handle on. Continue reading

How to Make a Budget – Determine Fixed Expenses

Setting Your BudgetOne of the first steps in setting up a budget is to determine whether an expense is fixed or variable. If you get a bill every month, that is the easiest way to determine your fixed expenses. These would be expenses like rent, student loan, car payment, phone bill, insurance, internet, cable or satellite TV, and so on. Continue reading