budget plan

How To Make A Budget Plan If You Make Under $40K

Living on a tight budget can be challenging, especially if you earn under $40,000 per year. But, with proper budgeting, you can still manage your finances efficiently. 

You can make a budget plan by evaluating your income and expense, cutting down on expenses, setting up a savings plan, and considering an installment loan. 

In this article, we will discuss these useful tips in more detail to help you make a budget plan if you earn less than $40K annually. Read on to learn how!

Making A Budget Plan For Under $40K Income

Step 1: Evaluate Your Income And Expense

The first step in making a budget plan is to evaluate your income and expenses. You need to have a clear understanding of how much money you're earning and where that money is going. 

Stand by creating a list of all your income sources, including your salary, freelance income, or any other sources. Then, make a list of all your expenses, such as rent, utility bills, groceries, and transportation costs. After that, calculate your total income and expenses to determine how much money you have left each month. 

budget plan graphic

Consider this example:

Income Sources

Monthly Amount 

Salary

$2,800

Freelance income

$400

---

---

Total Income 

$3,200

Expenses

Monthly Amount

Rent

$800

Utilities

$100

Groceries

$300

Transportation

$100

Entertainment

$150

Total Expenses

$1,450

With a monthly income of $3,200 and monthly expenses of $1,450, this leaves $1,750 for savings or additional expenses.

Step 2: Cut Down On Expenses

Once you have a clear understanding of your income and expenses when making a budget plan, it's time to cut down on unnecessary expenses. Try to limit your entertainment expenses, such as dining out, movies, and concerts. 

Consider switching to a cheaper phone or cable plan. Cancel any subscriptions that you don't use regularly. Small savings can add up over time and help you stay within your budget. 

For instance, instead of buying coffee every day, try making your own coffee at home. You'll be surprised at how much money you can save by making small changes to your spending habits. 

Step 3: Set Up A Savings Plan

Saving money is crucial when you have a limited income. After analyzing your expenses, set a realistic goal for saving each month. Try saving at least 10% of your monthly income and put the money in a savings account. 

Having a savings plan will help you in case of emergencies or unexpected expenses. For example, if your car breaks down or you need to make an urgent payment, you can use the money from your savings account to cover that. Also, a savings plan can allow you to save for a big purchase such as a house or a car. 

There are different types of savings accounts that you can utilize for your savings plan. Some examples include traditional savings accounts, high-yield savings accounts, money market accounts, and certificates of deposit (CDs). 

The interest rates on these accounts can vary depending on the bank or financial institution offering them, as well as the type of account and current market conditions. Generally, high-yield savings accounts and CDs tend to offer higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts. It's best to compare rates from different banks to find the best option for your specific needs. 

Step 4: Consider An Installment Loan

If you need extra money for an emergency expense or unexpected bill and do not have any money saved yet, you can consider applying for an installment loan. Mississippi Title Loans, Inc. can help you get the cash you need now quickly and easily. 

cash for loan

Installment loans are a convenient option for those who need to borrow money but don't want to use a credit card or traditional bank loan. With an installment loan, you can borrow up to $1,200 and pay it off in manageable installments.

Applying for an installment loan takes minimal effort. To apply, submit your online request form and one of the friendly representatives will call you soon to complete the steps. All you'll need is your ID, a checking account statement that's in your name, and pay stubs or some sort of proof of income. That is all!

This can be a helpful solution if you're struggling to make ends meet at this time or need urgent money for an unexpected expense while working on making a budget plan that works long-term. 

Make Your Budget Plan Today!

Making a budget plan when you earn less than $40K a year may seem difficult, but it's not impossible. By following these tips, you can take control of your finances and manage your money efficiently. 

Remember to evaluate your income and expenses, cut down on unnecessary expenses, set up a savings plan, and consider an installment loan if you need extra cash. With these tips, you can create a budget plan that works for you and helps you achieve your financial goals. And, if you ever need help with unexpected expenses, Mississippi Title Loans, Inc. is always here to help. 

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.

Emma Frost

Emma Frost is a lifestyle and finance blogger with a talent for communication and a passion for financial literacy. She uses her writing talents to explore topics that help her readers gain financial stability and growth.