Keep track of your income carefully. Make sure you know exactly how much you earn at any given time and then you simply spend less than you earn each month. Make certain that you apply the most money toward the things that are of the most importance in your life. Insurances, rent, payments, utilities, and things of that nature should be considered first. Also, make sure that your check book is always kept up to date so no surprises will come your way. It is easy to forget to register some debits and credits. This is crucial to keeping a successful budget. Careful shopping is the key to maintaining a budget on only one income. Knowing where the good prices are and comparison shopping can make all the difference.

Keep a buffer of money in your bank account at all times. How much you keep in the bank really depends on the individual. Some prefer a few hundred dollars and others are better satisfied with at least a thousand. Begin with whatever your bank allows. Some bank accounts require that a certain amount of cash be maintained in them or charges may be initiated. Start there and try to add to the amount whenever possible. If you think you won't be able to meet your plan, don't panic, you just need to adjust your plan. Rethinking the plan is usually easier than getting a different job or asking for a raise. Start first by marking all expenses on a sheet of paper and set that against your actual income.