Budget Calculator
Free budget calculator to plan your monthly spending. Apply the 50/30/20 rule, track income vs expenses by category, and see exactly where your money should go, instantly with no signup.
Budget Summary
Needs / Wants / Savings (Actual vs Target)
How This Is Calculated
Recommended amounts use your income × framework percentages; gaps compare actual spending to each category target, with your own numbers plugged in:
Everything behind the Budget Calculator
Formulas, reference charts, and detailed answers — expand any section you need.
50/30/20 Budget Calculator: The Rule Explained
The 50/30/20 rule splits take-home income three ways: 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings.
| Take-Home Income | Needs (50%) | Wants (30%) | Savings (20%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $3,000 | $1,500 | $900 | $600 |
| $5,000 | $2,500 | $1,500 | $1,000 |
| $8,000 | $4,000 | $2,400 | $1,600 |
Budget Calculator: How Should I Split My Monthly Income?
This budget calculator turns your take-home income into a complete monthly spending plan. Enter your income and the calculator generates recommended amounts for every category under the framework you choose, then lets you enter your actual spending to see exactly where the plan and reality diverge.
Example: On $5,000 monthly take-home, the 50/30/20 rule recommends $2,500 for needs, $1,500 for wants, and $1,000 for savings and debt payoff.
Zero-Based Budget Calculator: Every Dollar Assigned
Zero-based budgeting assigns every dollar of income a job before the month starts, so income minus all assignments equals exactly zero. The zero-based budget calculator mode tracks your remaining unassigned balance live as you fill categories.
Monthly Budget Calculator: Actual Spending vs Plan
Comparison mode takes your actual monthly spending per category and puts it next to the recommended amount, flagging each line over or under. Most budget problems concentrate in two or three categories, usually dining out, shopping, or subscriptions.
What Is a Good Savings Rate?
Savings rate is the percentage of take-home income going to savings and investments. Under 10% leaves little margin. The 10 to 20% range is solid and matches the 50/30/20 target. Above 20% builds wealth quickly.
How to Budget When Expenses Exceed Income
When expenses exceed income, the calculator shows the exact monthly shortfall and ranks your want-category spending by size, since wants are where cuts are realistically available.