A simple but effective budget planning method is called “budget conversion” or “envelope system”. When using this method, you create an envelope for each type of spending. This way, you can use only those funds that have been allocated for a particular period.
It helps you control the money designated for each category of spending per week or month. The funds put into the envelope contribute to this. However, you can use a spreadsheet or the Poketguard budget app to do this. However, the efficiency of physical envelopes and money seems to be effective for many due to the visualization.
Tips from experts regarding cash stuffing
Planning and budgeting are necessary for everyone to effectively optimize their current expenses for a specific period. It is easier to spend the allocated money if you follow a few tips. The following ones deserve special attention among them:
- Allocating categories of expenses. It is necessary to review bank statements or start keeping records of expenses. All expenses should be organized into categories: utilities, entertainment, groceries, household items, and technical expenses.
- Determine the spending limits for each category. You need to specify a particular sum for the expenses in each group. You can find this out through your bank statements so you know how much was spent and where it went. It is also possible to reduce spending in certain categories by setting the limits lower, which will save the budget.
- Creating envelopes for stuffing. Usually, people prefer white envelopes with simple signatures. However, you can decorate them with colored markings or place the envelopes in beautiful wallets. However, keeping the envelopes at home is best to avoid unnecessary waste or loss of money. It is better to take specific envelopes when there is a need for payment, such as paying off utility debts.
- Withdrawing money to fill envelopes. After the preparatory operations, you can withdraw money from your bank account, distribute it into stacks, and put each stack into a specific envelope. It is desirable to store the money in a safe place or purchase a special safe.
- Using the money for its designated purpose. You should spend only what is available in the envelopes for the cash-fill method to be effective. It would be best if you did this in a disciplined manner so that the limits are not exhausted. You should also not use emergency savings or credit funds. Besides, you should not transfer excess money from one envelope to another. It is better to review the items of spending and plan it properly.
- Save the remaining money. If you have managed to limit your expenses, you can have a small reserve of money for each period. The rest can be invested in a deposit to earn interest. This way, you can deposit these funds at interest every month with proper budget planning and get a good income.
Such steps will allow you to manage your expenses competently during a specific period. It would be best to have the will, concentration, and discipline to do this. It is better not to neglect preventive measures to avoid severe financial losses, too.
Who should preferably use the cash-fill method?
This strategy is suitable for people who spend their money uncontrollably, have a lot of debts, or buy things without a backward thought. This system can come in handy if you have little money left in your bank account until your next salary.
The cash-fill method means withdrawing and distributing vast amounts of money into envelopes. However, you can also use spreadsheets or specialized budgeting apps like Pocketguard. With its help, you can control your assets through your gadgets.