Monthly Expense Recap: December 2009
How’d I do this month?
Bars: $0/$20
Bills & Utilities: $114/$200
Car Payment: $0/$300
Cell: $77/$80
Entertainment: $49/$50
Gas: $156.36/$190
Gifts: $39/$300
Groceries: $15/$200
Personal Care: $0/$20
Restaurants: $18/$70
Shopping: $11/$100
Student Loan: $0/$162
The Good
In the beginning of December, I learned that my income was going to be considerably less stable come January so I severely curbed my spending. As you can see, I ditched my entire gift budget and just postponed the holidays completely. I used the opportunity to only eat out of my kitchen rather than purchase groceries. Also, since I was paid ahead on my car and student loan, I decided the money was more important in my savings account for the month. I did not spend money on any health/beauty or alcohol purchases.
The Bad
Nada!
Adjustments
Now that I know the bare minimum I can get by, I will decrease my shopping and grocery budget. I will also reduce my personal care budget as well, since I received some of these items as gifts.