Beyond the ordinary

l “Financial Planning 101 – Budgeting Tips & Tools for a Fresh Start” guide tailored for individuals reentering society, keeping it real, supportive, and empowering —

💰 Financial Planning 101

Budgeting Tips & Tools for a Fresh Start

“Every dollar has a job — make it work for you, not against you.”

🧭 Why Budgeting Matters

Whether you're just getting back on your feet or rebuilding your life, budgeting helps you:

Gain control over your money
Plan for essentials (rent, food, transportation)
Avoid getting overwhelmed by unexpected expenses
Build a sense of freedom and security

🔑 Step-by-Step Budgeting Guide

Step 1: Know What’s Coming In

Write down your total monthly income from:

Work

Support programs (SNAP, TANF, SSI)

Family or friends

Odd jobs or side hustles

📝 Tip: If income varies, average your last 2-3 months to get a baseline.

Step 2: List Your Monthly Expenses

Split them into Fixed and Variable:

Fixed: Rent, phone, bus pass, insurance
Variable: Groceries, gas, personal items, entertainment

✅ Include:

Court fees or fines (if applicable)
Child support
Debt payments

Step 3: Track It to Tame It

Use any of these to keep track:

A simple notebook
Free apps like Mint, Goodbudget, or EveryDollar
A spreadsheet (Google Sheets)
Printable budget trackers (I can create one if you'd like)

🧠 Money habits improve when you’re paying attention.

Step 4: Use the 50/30/20 Rule (If Possible)

If you have flexibility, try this formula:

50% Needs (rent, food, utilities)
30% Wants (clothing, phone upgrade, etc.)
20% Savings/Debt (emergency fund, paying down fines)

🎯 Modify as needed — even saving $5 a week matters!

✨ Smart Financial Habits for a Fresh Start

💳 Avoid payday loans – high fees = trap
🛒 Make a grocery list – keeps you focused and saves money
🧾 Save receipts – helps track spending & create better habits
💡 Use cash envelopes – assign amounts for each expense
📦 Start small – even saving spare change builds momentum

🛠️ Tools You Can Use

Tool What It Does Where to Get It Mint App Tracks spending and creates budgets Free on Android/iOS Goodbudget Digital envelope system Free or paid Cash Envelope System Physical budgeting tool DIY with envelopes Google Sheets Budget Customizable Tracker Free on Google Drive Local Credit Union Free financial literacy support Visit in-person or online

🧘🏽‍♀️ Final Thought

"Budgeting isn’t about restriction — it’s about intention."
You’re not just managing money; you’re building a foundation. Every smart choice is a step toward freedom, peace, and stability.