Personal Budgets for People with Disabilities

Everyone needs a personal budget. As an individual with a disability, there may be additional factors to include in your budget.

Here are the steps you can take to create a personal budget.

Wants VS Needs

Create a list of your wants versus your needs. For example, your wants list may include the following:

• Entertainment
• Fashion accessories
• Art supplies
• Unhealthy snacks

Your needs list, on the other hand, is going to look more like this:

• Food
• Water
• Shelter
• Heat/AC

The first step is the most important because it will help you with the rest of the steps.

Spending Habits

Keep track of what you spend money on. This will help you understand if most of your money is being spent on wants or needs.

You can track your spending habits using various forms, such as:

• A journal
• A Word document
• An app on your phone

Monthly Income

It’s important to keep track of exactly how much you make in a month. This may include:

• Job income
• Supplement Security Income
• Social Security Disability Insurance
• Worker’s compensation
• Veteran’s benefits
• Food stamps

This is a crucial step. You must know how much you’re expecting so you’re not guessing when it comes to your spending.

Bills

Organize your bills. Keep track of how much you’re billed for:

• Rent
• Utilities
• Groceries
• Telephone
• Credit cards
• Student loans

Keep track of how often and when you’re paying bills. Get into the habit of paying your bills on time or even early. Paying bills late will only lead to confusion because you’ll forget what you’ve paid for.

How Acumen Helps

Acumen Fiscal Agent is dedicated to helping people with disabilities manage their money. With our experts, you can create good spending habits, live independently, and have control over your finances. Contact us today and learn how a fiscal agent can change your life.