Budgeting in the US
Budget from your net (take-home) pay — what is left after federal and state income tax withholding, Social Security and Medicare (FICA), and any pre-tax deductions such as 401(k) contributions or health insurance premiums. Plan sinking funds for costs that do not arrive monthly: car registration, insurance premiums, holidays and back-to-school.
Many people use their tax refund or bonuses for an emergency fund or debt payoff; build those into your savings goals. Official tax information is on IRS.gov.
Open the planner in USDPopular US budgeting apps
YNAB, EveryDollar and Monarch Money are widely used in the US. Compare them before paying — and check current prices on each official site.