You've learned about income, spending, and the 50/30/20 rule. Now let's put it all together!

Time to build your first real budget using everything you've discovered. Think of this as your financial blueprint.

Engagement Message

What excites you most about starting your personal money plan?

Step 1: Start with your net income. Remember, that's your take-home pay after taxes and deductions.

Use your most recent paycheck or calculate your monthly net income. This is your foundation - everything else builds from here.

Engagement Message

Quickly, what's your best estimate of your monthly net income?

Step 2: Apply the 50/30/20 breakdown to your net income. Calculate your three buckets: needs, wants, and savings/debt.

For example: $3,000 net income = $1,500 needs, $900 wants, $600 savings/debt.

Engagement Message

Which bucket feels most challenging to stick to for you?

Step 3: List your actual needs using your spending tracking. Include rent, groceries, utilities, minimum debt payments, and transportation.

Compare this total to your 50% needs budget. If you're over, identify what to cut or adjust.

Engagement Message

What's your biggest "needs" expense each month?

Step 4: Plan your wants within your 30% allocation. This is your fun money! Include dining out, entertainment, hobbies, and subscriptions.

If your wants exceed 30%, decide which ones matter most to you and prioritize accordingly.

Engagement Message

Which "want" expense brings you the most joy?

Step 5: Set up your savings and debt payments for the 20% bucket. Include emergency fund contributions, retirement savings, and extra debt payments.