Struggling to manage your finances as a single parent? Budgeting made simple is key! Once you figure out the process it will make your life less stressful.

I make a monthly budget every single month. Not only does it help keep my spending under control, but it makes me very aware of where my money goes each month.

I understand that budgeting can be a daunting task, but using an online tool makes it easy and simple.

How to budget as a single parent

Setting up your budget

I use the pigly.com personal budget planner. This calculator us free to use and so simple. In my budget I include all my bills, eating out budget, clothing amount, fun money and $50 as an extra cushion. With some bill such as utilities that fluctuates, it’s good to have a little wiggle room.

Intentionally Spending

My word of the year is intentional and this goes for everything in my life. This means if you are in debt or living on a small income you need to think long and hard on what extra you spend your money on.

Save. Save. Save.

It’s an amazing feeling to know you have a little cushion in the saving account. So how do you save when living paycheck to paycheck? Go back to your budget. Look intentionally at your spending. Can you cut $25 from eating out? Can you go a month without shopping? Commit to start small and save $50 each month. Once you start seeing your savings account grow, the easier it is to continue.

Get rewarded for spending

Using apps such as Fetch to earn rewards. All you have to do is scan your receipt after each purchase. Once you have enough points, you can cash them in for gift cards. Use my code 9AH6W to get started.

Set goals

I’m a huge goal setter! I work on goals at the beginning of every year and then I also set monthly goals to help me reach my big goals. My big goal every year is our summer vacation. I pick a place I want to travel to, research the cost, then calculate how much I need to save every month. Knowing I have a destination in mind, I can be intentional about saving. 

Focus on financial freedom

No one wants to be a slave to money. And certainly not a slave to credit card debt. Work hard to pay those suckers off. If that means eating at home everyday for a year or no new clothes, it’s worth it! Imagine how much extra income you will have each month when that isn’t going to the credit card company.

Do you have any single parenting budget tips? Tell me about them in the comments.

A Cowboy’s Life is all about finding Joy in the Everyday! I enjoy sharing fun dinner recipes, family travel ideas and outdoor adventures to explore with your family