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As much as we do our best to budget, there’s always one or two things missing from our count. It can be very frustrating when you think you’re on the right track only to have less in your account than you calculated. Most of us know those repeat expenses we need pay, but what about the things that can pop up at random times? Here’s a look at some items you need to add to your budget. Hopefully you won’t get caught off guard.
Random apps
You might want to check your iTunes library or Google Play account to make sure you’re not paying money for an app each month. Things like Evernote, Oyster and Next Issue can quickly add up should you happen to forget them. Even if an app charges under $10 each month, you need to document it.
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Memberships
Let’s hope you put those monthly memberships to good use–otherwise you might forget you have them. Keep a lookout for your gym membership and other monthly charges like warehouse clubs that can add up to a small fortune. If you don’t use them, you might want to cancel them sooner than later so you can put that money towards another need.
Non-monthly bills
Don’t you hate it when you see a charge for something that takes your last bit of money? Keep your eyes peeled for those non-monthly expenses that can pop up at any given time–that is if you never thought to jot them down. Subscriptions are a popular example. Most of us sign up for a product or service without giving it a second thought.
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Unexpected repairs
Do you have some sort of emergency fund for unexpected expenses, or do you pray at the last minute everything will work itself out? One thing that needs to make it on our budget are those miscellaneous repairs that always seem to pop up at the worst time. If you own a car or a house, you know things can turn south at any given point. So why gamble when you can set a little aside for the just in case?
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Gifts
Hopefully you don’t have to purchase gifts for all the people you know in your life. That can get pretty expensive. It might be a good idea to jot down those good friends and family members’ birthdays on the calendar–with a reminder–so you can remember to give them something sooner than later. Should you not have money for a gift in the budget, just shout them out on Facebook.
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Pets
Who knew animals could cost so much money? Never underestimate the expenses you’re going to have as a pet owner. They will need food each month and a few accessories to keep them company. Those with dogs and cats might even enroll them in a monthly insurance plan in the event they get sick or need routine check-ups.
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Yearly bills
There are times when it’s cheaper to pay for a product or service yearly versus monthly. You just need to remember that special date as the cost is going to be in full. Set aside money each month or quarter for those yearly bills that can include taxes on a home, car insurance, and other premiums. The last thing you need is for the due date to roll around and not have the money.
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Health bills and expenses
Insurance unfortunately does not cover all of our medical costs. There’s a pretty high chance you’ll need to come out of pocket for some of those bills and expenses. Unless you are dealing with a recurring illness (you tend to develop a routine), it’s a good idea to put away for the just in case. You never know when you will fall sick, need prescriptions, or have to go to the hospital for treatment. Do your best to plan ahead.
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Vacation/travel
It doesn’t matter if you’re taking a mini trip in the state or plan to get away, you need to budget for travel-related expenses. It’s easy to forget you need money for hotel accommodations, gas, attractions/events and food while traveling. Sure most of us budget for those big excursions, but what about spur-of-the-moment vacays when the opportunity strikes?
