Know what you can afford
These five easy steps will get you started in drawing up a budget:
Distinguish between your needs and your wants.
List your sources of income.
List your expenses, including what you need to save.
Subtract your expenses from your income to see what you have left.
Keep track of your monthly expenses by updating your budget regularly.
Types of expenses
Fixed expenses
The amount you pay does not change frequently and payments are made regularly (e.g. monthly) including rent or bond repayments, school fees, insurance premiums and car repayments.
Variable expenses
Expenses you pay every month but they change depending on your usage, for example: airtime/data, electricity, water, groceries, public transport or fuel for your vehicle.
Saving
Saving is essential and should always be listed on your budget as an expense. If you wait to see what is left at the end of the month, you will not save anything. Saving also ensures you are prepared for life's emergencies.
