Skip to main content
Whistleblowing Contact Branches ATM's

Creating a budget that works for you

Creating a budget is the cornerstone of effective financial management. This article will walk you through the process of tracking your income and expenses, categorizing spending, and setting achievable financial goals. Discover practical tips for developing a realistic and flexible budget that adapts to your changing financial situation.

  • 8 min read

Step 1: Track Your Income and Expenses

The first step in creating a budget that works for you is to gain a clear understanding of your financial inflows and outflows.Track Your Income by listing all sources of income, including:

  • Salary or wages
  • Freelance or side gig earnings
  • Investment Income
  • Any other sources of regular income

Track Your Expense for one month. Keep a detailed record of every expense by categorizing your spending into groups to have a comprehensive picture of where your money is going, such as:

  • Housing (rent or mortgage)
  • Utilities (electricity, water, internet)
  • Groceries and dining out
  • Transportation (car payments, gas, public transit)
  • Insurance (health, car, home)
  • Debt payments (credit cards, loans)
  • Entertainment and hobbies
  • Savings and investments

Once you’ve tracked your expenses, categorize them to identify patterns and potential savings:

Fixed vs. Variable Expenses

  • Fixed expenses: Constant monthly costs (e.g., rent, loan payments).
  • Variable expenses: Fluctuating costs (e.g., groceries, entertainment).

This helps prioritize your budgeting efforts.

Step 2: Set Achievable Financial Goals

Clear financial goals provide direction and motivation. Goals can be:

Short-Term: Emergency fund, paying off debt.

Medium-Term: Buying a car, saving for a home.

Long-Term: Retirement savings, financial independence.

Set SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Step 3: Develop Your Budget

Allocate income to cover expenses and direct surplus towards goals. Consider the 50/30/20 rule:

  • 50% for needs (housing, utilities)
  • 30% for wants (entertainment)
  • 20% for savings and debt repayment

Be Realistic

Create a budget that matches your spending habits. Overly restrictive budgets can be hard to maintain.

Plan for the Unexpected

Set aside money for unexpected expenses like car repairs or medical bills.

Step 4: Review and Adjust Regularly

Review your budget monthly or quarterly to ensure it aligns with your goals.

Adjust as Needed

Adapt your budget to changes in income, expenses, or goals. Flexibility is key to long-term success.

Monitor Progress

Track your progress towards goals and celebrate small victories.

Practical Tips for Budgeting Success

  • Use Technology

    Banking apps such as Raiffeisen ON can simplify the process of tracking income and expenses and provide real-time updates and insights.

  • Automate Savings

    Set up automatic transfers to your savings or investment accounts. This ensures you consistently save money without having to think about it.

  • Prioritize Debt Repayment

    High-interest debt can quickly erode your financial stability. Prioritize paying off these debts to free up more money for savings and investments.

Track your expenses on time

Tracking your expenses has never been easier! With Raiffeisen ON, you can monitor your expenses, download statements, pay bills, and manage your monthly payments seamlessly.

ron download

These topics might also interest you.

Let´s discuss your needs

Get advice at a branch

Our experts are available to discuss with you at our branches.

Find a branch

Contact our call center

From any mobile network (normal rate).

Call Us

Arrange an appointment

Arrange an appointment with us in one of our branches using our online form.

Make an appointment