A family budget you can actually revisit

A simple overview of regular income and expenses.

Use one time period

Convert regular amounts to a monthly estimate before comparing them. Weekly amounts can be multiplied by 52 and divided by 12; fortnightly amounts by 26 and divided by 12. Actual spending will still vary from month to month.

Include irregular costs

Think about annual bills, equipment replacement, travel and events you already know about. Add a monthly allowance for these if it helps your planning. Keep assumptions visible so you can revise them.

Treat the result as a snapshot

The planner shows income minus the expenses you enter. It cannot tell you what you should spend or whether a financial product is suitable. Check the inputs before making decisions based on the total.

Review one thing at a time

Choose a regular time to update the numbers. Compare the plan with your actual experience and adjust categories that no longer fit. For personal financial advice, use an appropriately qualified adviser.