Does it feel as though there is no way to get out of the red and into the black, much less plan ahead for retirement or a vacation? Are you tired of getting paid on Friday and being broke on Saturday? Do you have piles of useless junk that you wish you’d never bought? If this sounds like you, we’ve got good news! There’s a lot of help out there for you. All you need to do is choose which one suits you the best.
No matter where you go for help, you will be required to build a budget. Many people dread the task because they view it as overwhelming and frustrating. But never fear – it sounds worse than it is. Looking at it another way, a budget can relieve stress because it puts you in control. It’s an important tool to financial freedom.
This article explores three options to help you gain control of your financial situation. You may wish to explore all three options or chose one depending on your comfort level. For those who simply want to get a handle on where the money is going, a good software program may be just the ticket. Need a little more interaction? Check out one of the websites offering financial help. If you’re feeling a desperate crush, maybe it’s time to head straight for counseling help.
One option is to use software like Quicken
or Microsoft Money—they are both great options and tools for budgeting. Money management software will take you through the steps and allow you to create or add to categories of spending so you will be able to look at the annual picture. It will then break down what you need to look at every month so that you can be prepared. This software helps with your budget because it lets you see your money all in one place, as well as giving you prompts when it’s time to pay your your bills. In fact, some programs will enable you to have payments automatically deducted from your bank account. This is a great feature if you’re trying to build your credit report.
Many people have such a hard time with budgeting because they simply don’t know where their money is going! There are some great new websites such as www.MoneyPants.com that help with this issue. These web sites will track all of your spending and then help you set up your goals. There is a low monthly fee to use any website that will help you with this, but they are generally very user friendly, and in the case of Money Pants, even fun to use. You will have access to someone who can answer questions and a message board where you can find a lot of other information. One great feature is that they will email you with reminders when you have a bill due.
As you spend money, you will be able to change the categories; this will allow you get a better picture of where you need to cut back, or where you need to invest more. Many money management software programs often also have companion websites where you can set up an account and further manage your budget or investments.
If you need something a little more hands on to get yourself back into the black, you have many options. You can contact a credit counseling office in your area or online and find out what resources they have available to you. Many offices have free classes on budgeting. I’d look for a Christian based organization because I want to speak to people who understand my priorities and perspective. But there are very competent secular sources available too. You will need to check their advice against your understanding of scripture – not a bad idea even if the counselor claims to be a Christian either.
As you can see, building a budget doesn’t have to be an awful task. By doing it right, you will get to watch, step-by-step how your financial picture changes. Just imagine, by taking this step, you may one day soon be debt free, or even own your own home. The key is to take your time, do the process in small bites, and be sure to take advantage of all the help out there. You’ll be on your way in no time!
In Christ's Name,
Andy Havens
Andy Havens is a writer, marketer and businessman who also happens to be a Christian...or is that the other way around?
