Why do I need a list of budget categories?

The purpose of listing these categories is simply to give you some ideas and to help you find the categories that should be included in your own budget. You may also want to see our recommended budget percentages so you know how much to allocate for the major budget categories.

How do I set up budget categories?

Before set up your budget categories, take a few moments and think about your habits and goals. These ideas are a place to start. Creating a budget that fits your expenses and spending habits is the key to success. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to add more budget categories or adjust others.

How do budget categories differ from other budget categories?

Depending on your budget method, your priorities, and what your family spends money on, your budget categories may be different from someone else's. Most of us have some standard overlap though, like housing costs and food. When breaking up your expenses into budget categories, the level of detail is up to you.