It’s a new year and probably time for a new or updated single mom budget. What do you typically use to create a budget? Is it something you will use again and again? Maybe you are looking for a new tool or worksheet to jump start the process.
Reasons to Create a New Single Mom Budget this Year
Maybe you don’t think you need to create another budget. Here are two reasons you might want to consider creating a new budget:
- You got a raise
- You lost income because of a layoff.
Regardless of the reason, it is a good idea to update your budget so you know what will happen with your money this year.
I admit, I am pretty lazy with it comes to making a budget. I’ve used several tools and either didn’t follow my budget religiously or I completely forgot about it. When unexpected expenses come up the budget goes out the window.
Me Budgeting on a Smaller Income
When I got laid off from my “regular” job budgeting was pared down to rent payment, utilities, phone, and groceries. I had to keep it simple to stay sane. In the process of reducing expenses, I can find ways to make extra money like selling electronics, putting clothes in consignment, sell jewelry and especially sell my diamond engagement ring I’ll never wear again.
To jumpstart the budget creation process, I’ve compiled a list of single mom budget worksheets to help me and you work this thing out together. I can’t promise I’ll be good, but I’ll do my best.
1. Single Mom Budget Sanity Worksheet
UPDATE: Download theAutomatic Printable Single Mom Budget Worksheet!
I have created a printable single mom budget worksheet of my own that you can download for free. Simply enter your after-tax monthly income and it automatically creates your budget for each category.
Click the image below to go to the download page for the MS Word file and follow the instructions on page 2 (See the demo video below).
6 More Free Single Mom Budget Worksheets
2. Microsoft Office Budget Templates
I think most people with Microsoft Office have used their budget templates. Just download to Excel or even Word to complete and print.
3. The Household Planner Free Printable Budget
This budget worksheet has the typical elements most budget worksheets have. You have your income and expense columns as well as your categories to work with. It is a PDF file you have to download and print.
4. Dave Ramsey Budget Tools
Dave Ramsey has three different budget worksheets to choose from. The first is a quickie budget worksheet. The next is a Cash Flow worksheets that is more comprehensive. The last is a budget worksheet for irregular income. I think these are great options.
5. Basic Budgeting Worksheet
BetterBudgeting.com has a free printable worksheet to help you create a budget. It’s pretty straightforward. Like the others, you simply download and fill in your income and expenses. They also have a monthly spending worksheet to help you keep track of your expenses.
6. Home Budget Worksheets from CCC
These website has a budget in your pocket worksheet. It is a mini-planner you can keep in your purse or pocket for quick reference. They also have a workbook and an Excel and PDF worksheet you can download.
7. Practical Money Skills Budgeting
This is one of my favorite websites to learn about money. They have a simple (and colorful) one page budget worksheet. This is great for the person that is making their first attempt at budgeting or just want to move to a simpler method.
These worksheet should get you started on your single mom budget for the year. Feel free to play with it to find the right balance. Also, think about any emergencies you think will come up and try to factor them in. It could be a flat tire, an emergency trip to see a family member, a medical expense, or anything.
Remember to Give to Get More Money
Remember to factor in giving as well. It could be your favorite charity, helping a friend, or donation to your place of worship. Regardless of how you choose to give, just get into the habit of giving. It’s one secret way the rich use to remain prosperous, plus it just feels good!
Happy budgeting!
