If you’re new to budgeting, it’s important to Learn Budgeting Basics and understand what a budget is and how it helps you examine what you earn and how you are spending that income. A Budgeting Basics is a financial plan that takes income and expenses into account and provides estimates for how much you make and spend over a given period of time.

Addressing your financial situation and distinguishing between needs and wants is an important first step in Budgeting Basics before creating your annual budget. Acknowledging areas where you are overspending can be an eye-opening experience. Creating a budget and sticking to it can help you save and reach your short- and long-term financial goals. This is not a one-time exercise. Revisit and rework your budget if you have a financial windfall or setback so it reflects your current situation.