I consider myself a planner. I especially like planning ahead for annual expenses and thought I’d share a few that have tended to creep up on me in hopes that you can avoid them when you ring in the New Year.
January. When credit card statements get sent out this month you don’t want to get hit with a holiday hangover. Plan ahead to pay off those gifts you bought this festive season. Also, hosting the big football game can tally up to a big expense. Have fun but budget for the pizza and beverages.
February – Not much surprise here that Valentine’s Day can make us spend a little more this month. But don’t forget to account for any teacher and/or coach gifts and cards for classmates, as well.
March – Sometimes Easter can fall in March. In 2019 it falls on April 21st. However, there may be Easter attire or school pictures to pay for now.
April – Easter baskets and gifts can set ya back. Make sure to pad the budget accordingly. If you’re a homeowner, the last day to pay property taxes is April 10th before they become delinquent. And if you’re alive, then tax day is this month. Make sure to file your taxes or an extension to avoid any fees.
May – Yeah! Mother’s Day! Make you and your mama happy but just make sure you don’t go into debt in order to do so. Looking ahead, price compare for summer camps now. Lastly, if you live on the west coast, people…your electric bill will have already started to climb this month so budget accordingly.
June – Vacay, anyone? Time to lay out some cash for flights and hotels. Even if you’re not heading out of town, running errands around Corona can be expensive with our traffic since gas tends to be more expensive this month. Let’s not forget Father’s Day. Google Gifts for Him for ideas that won’t break the bank.
July – Hosting for the 4th this year? Those burger patties and beers won’t pay for themselves. Budget for that summer get-together. Amusement parks, blockbuster summer movies, and summer concerts aren’t cheap, either.
August – Back to School shopping can put a dent in the bottom line. The best deals and selection are towards the end of July and early August.
September – Grandparents Day rolls around this month. A nice handmade gift shouldn’t rock the budget boat. Considering a Labor Day road trip? Make sure to budget for any expensive car maintenance like tires. Don’t forget to account for donations for school fundraisers, getting classmate’s birthday gifts, and back to school pictures.
October – Spooky spending creeps upon us this month. Halloween costumes, school parties, and candy can all add up to a scary sight for the bank account.
November – Turkey isn’t cheap. Neither are the adult beverages, baking supplies, and holiday season decor. Don’t let the Thanksgiving expenses gobble, gobble your money. Let’s not forget about all those gifts you’ll buy with the Black Friday and Cyber Week deals.
December – Christmas trees, stocking stuffers, and drinks to ring in the New Year can burst the champagne budget bubbles. And property taxes become delinquent on December 10th…ugh.