It will save you money

Making a budget is essential for your financial well-being. Once you have a sound plan in place, the worst recession won’t be able to topple you. Beware, payday loan purveyors – if you aren’t careful, you can fall victim to one of the top 10 budget mistakes.

Having two household incomes – because you need them

If there is a second income in your household, it’s nice to be able to use that one for savings. However, too many people have a second income so they can overextend themselves on credit, particularly when it comes to buying more home than they need. What if one income dries up? Live within the means of only one income and you will be more economical, and safer.

Not putting money away

Savings accounts, college funds or even rainy day funds. Whatever you choose to use it for, you need to set small portion of each paycheck aside. It pays to be prepared!

Overspending

Will that hole in your soul really be filled with a new television? If the old one works just fine, you should think before thinking about replacing it. Impulse buys can be lethal, so make sure your budget is about what you really need every month. There should be some money earmarked for fun, but you have to be disciplined and stay in the boundaries. When you shop, look for sales and the best deals.

Not recording expenses

When your budget is young, this is essential. Record purchases in the register of your checkbook, Smartphone, or a notebook, and create visual proof you’re following your budget. Eventually, you’ll get the hand of it and won’t need to write everything down at once, but if you encounter trouble, don’t be afraid to write it all down again.

Going credit crazy

This is very symptomatic of overspending. If you don’t have the money for something, don’t be buying it. Using credit makes it too easy to overspend, and long-term revolving interest is very expensive. If you have to use credit, try to pay it off as quickly as possible and not carry a balance.

Being too charitable

This one might sound odd, but it’s obvious, isn’t it? There’s nothing wrong with being generous, but you still have to look after your own bottom line.

Going overboard with birthday parties

Parents of young children may know about this one. I don’t mean how much to spend on junior’s gift, but on party guests. Giving goodie bags is a great practice for kids, but is it actually necessary? Cake, ice cream and games should be enough.

Too many bills

This is why it’s useful not to go crazy with credit cards. Housing and utility bills are unavoidable, but you really DO need eight or nine credit cards? A too many bills can lead to errors and omissions, not to mention more money you’re paying out.

Being afraid to ask for a raise

If you are valuable to your employer, make sure they know. If you don’t think your pay is consistent with what others in your field are paid, discuss it with your superiors. If you are indeed valuable, a reasonable employer will at least consider it. If your employer won’t do it, consider improving your skills and education so that you can perhaps find a better job.

Not creating a budget

A person without a plan is a person who will soon be parted from their money. Payday loans can help, but budgeting is the best way to handle your finances over time.