Excel Budget Sheet

Create your own budget sheet using Microsoft Excel.

Steps:

1. Calculate, on average, how much you make per month.

2. In Excel create a column for expenses (groceries, light spending, savings, emergency funds, etc.) and list beside each how much money you think you need to budget in that area.

3. Learn some simple formulas, like sum, and enter them into appropriate places. For example you could have a space for a total at the bottom of your budget sheet and have excel add up the amounts in each space above automatically.

4. Look at your budget chart and answer these questions:

• Do you make enough each month to cover your expenses and leave some left over for saving and investing?
• If you don't make enough to cover your expenses, how could you make more money? How could you save money on some of your expenses?
• If you are making enough each month then what would like to save you money for (bike, video game, cell phone etc.)? If you put a small amount away every month how long will it take you to make your saving goal?

Mark this activity as complete when you have totaled up your monthly income and expenses and you feel like you have a good idea of your financial situation.

Track your progress and earn badges!

This activity is included in the following:

• Crafty Consumer Badge
• Bargain Hunter Badge