How do I make a budget in Excel or Google Sheets?
List your monthly income, then your expenses by category, and compare each month’s plan with what you actually spent. In this workbook you type into the yellow cells and the dashboard, totals and charts update on their own.
Is a budget spreadsheet better than an app?
A spreadsheet costs once, keeps your data on your own computer and lets you change anything. An app links to your bank but usually charges every month. I’ve used this spreadsheet every month for 8 years.
Snowball or avalanche: which is better?
Avalanche, highest rate first, costs the least interest. Snowball, smallest balance first, gives quicker wins. In the sample, avalanche saves $29,476 and snowball $26,954 against paying minimums only.
How do I know if refinancing is worth it?
Divide your closing costs by the monthly saving to get your break-even month. If you’ll keep the loan well past that, the refi usually pays. The calculator also shows the total cost of both loans.
What do I receive?
Two Excel (.xlsx) files: one filled with sample data so you can see how everything works, and a blank copy ready for your own numbers. You also get a PDF with two buttons that make your own Google Sheets copies of both, saved in your Google Drive. Everything downloads right after purchase, and the instructions are on the Cover tab.
Does it work in Google Sheets?
Yes. Your purchase includes a Google Sheets version of both files. Click a button in the included PDF, sign in with any Google account and Google makes your own private copy. No Google account? You can create one free at accounts.google.com/signup in a couple of minutes; it doesn't need to be Gmail. The report pages print one tab at a time in Google Sheets.
Can you customize it for me?
Yes. We can add categories, tabs or reports for your household or small business. Email us with what you need.
Which version of Excel do I need, and does it work in Google Sheets?
Microsoft 365 or Excel 2019 and later, on Windows or Mac. It uses plain formulas with no macros or add-ins. Prefer Google Sheets? Your purchase includes a Google Sheets version too, so Excel isn't required. Apple Numbers is not supported.
Is it a working model or just a template?
It is a working model. The formulas are already linked from tab to tab, so you type your numbers into the yellow input cells and every result, total and chart updates on its own.
Can I use it for my real numbers?
Yes. I built it for my own household and still use it every month. Start with the blank copy and enter your own budget, spending and debts.
What is your refund policy?
Because the files download straight away, all sales are final. If a file is damaged, will not open or is materially different from its description, email us within 14 days and we will fix it, replace it or refund you.
Do I need to create an account?
No. You pay through our secure checkout (Lemon Squeezy) and get your download link right away on screen and by email. No account or sign-up needed.
