Best to have a budget sheet?

williewonder

This is what I've been doing, sorting out my budgeting. I haven't got a spreadsheet but this works for me and I update it everyday. I do it on iMac pages How do you do yours?

La_escocesa

I like it. Keeping track of everything you spend is a great way to hammer it home, isn’t it?! 

I’m a big fan of YNAB - been using it for about 4 years now and I’m not even joking when I say it changed my life!  

enthusiasticsaver

Whatever works for you.  I use clear checkbook free software package as that comes up with reminders for direct debits and bills and I can see at a glance balances in current account, savings and credit card. 

FootyFanDan

I think this a a good idea - I think ultimately tracking it is the best way to ensure your on top of it, so whilst there are varying tools or ways people do it the best way is what works for you.

moneyworrier2021

I'd be interested in other peoples spreadsheets that they live by. I have one on my Mac using numbers but i only have it for my monthly Bills. Not so much on excess spending

Matt8888

I am a self-confessed spreadsheet nerd. I use one to track a lot of things in my life. It becomes quite an absorbing hobby (gosh, that sounds really sad). But in terms of pensions, investments, spending, savings, financial targets, calculating savings if you settle debt/mortgage early, effect of increased interest rates on savings/debts etc., a spreadsheet can't be beaten. 

Choccygirl123

I run an excel sheet which is broken down into incomes, outgoings into subsections like house, insurances, children, pets, cars abd then in each the cost for example in House it shows insurance, council tax, tv licence, engergy, water repairs etc. 

I've spent years getting it to where it is today with formulae all linked. So if I over specs on food I update the misc budget. I highlight each item as it's paid in or out so I know what's left, 
sounds a faff, but it really works for me.

williewonder

My budget sheet might be a little crude but it really works for me. It helps me keep to my budget and calculate all my outgoings and where and when needs paying.