Do you ever look at your checkbook at the end of the month and wonder where all the money went? I always did until my husband and I made up a budget. It takes a little time, but it is worth your financial security. A budget will show you how much you spend and where you can cut back. It is your financial plan. I will take you through the steps of making up a budget so you can get control of your money. Here is a budget worksheet to help you out.

Why budget? Here are 7 benefitsof budgeting. Mary Hunt also has a terrific way to make a spending plan in her book Debt-Proof Living. I can't recommend this book highly enough. She tackles debt, investing, spending, college planning and other financial questions, all in easy to understand terms.

Or you can use Bonnie's Household Budget Book, which is a workbook. Another workbook for setting up your budget is The Budget Kit

Once you are comfortable with a budget you can learn how to use your budget to achieve long range goals

Are you overspending in some of your budget categories? This Online Budget Guide from Larry Burkett of Christian Financial Concepts.

Do you need more help making a budget? Apply to get a Budget Counselor.

Here are some budgeting resolutions.

The envelope method is another way to do your budgeting.

What if your income is variable? What are some ways to cut down on things in your budget? These answers and other ideas are in Budget Tips.

Creating a Realistic Budget article by Ramona Creel

I wish you luck and if you have any budgeting questions or ideas I'd love to hear from you.

BUDGET WORKSHEET