I finally got around to creating a template to record my finances.  The challenge is not listing down the normal or everyday expenses, it’s listing the incidentals.  More often than not, incidental expenses are what make saving-up really hard.

LIST TIPS:

1. List how much you are saving.  This should come first, not last.  Of course, you need to have an idea prior to making the list of how much you will be able to put away.  Make sure you make that bank deposit within 3 days of receiving your pay check.  If you don’t, you’ll end up spending it.

2. Make an entry for emergency expenses.  Emergency expenses are not incidentals.  This fund should pay for emergencies like trips to the ER, medicine and hospital bills.

3. List all usual or normal expenses.  Make sure to follow the budget plan!

4. List ALL of the incidentals.  After listing them, see what you can possibly cut-down on to minimize your expenses.  This list includes your weekend and party fund.  You are not required to spend this money!  If you don’t spend it, good for you!  Add it to your savings or emergency fund.

Now, aside from keeping a monthly record TRY to keep a daily one.  I do.  It’s some work but it really helps you track those finances!

If you want to have a copy of my money tracker file, just leave me a message here and I’ll e-mail it to you.