budgeting 101

the third part of our financial literacy seminar in SFC is budgeting 101.

here are some tips on how to take care of your finances.

1. give first the ten percent (10%) of your net monthly income (less tax) to God as tithes. this is a priority. remember it is God's money as discussed in our previous topic on financial stewardship. so don't focus on the 10%, but on the 90% we keep for yourself.

note: if the situation is really tight then you can ask for an excuse. you can give to God whatever amount you can. after all, what is important is the condition of your hearts when you give.

2. allot another ten percent (10%) to your retirement fund. why retirement fund? because you cannot just entrust your future from your Social Security System (SSS) or Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) monthly pension when you retire. it may not be enough to sustain your daily expenses specially your medication. remember, you may live longer than you expected. invest your retirement fund through long term financial vehicles such as mutual funds, bond funds, etc.

note: if your money is not enough to buy shares from mutual funds, you can save it first in your preferred bank or cooperatives. when your savings is enough then transfer it to financial institutions that offers financial management like mutual funds. whatever happens don't touch it. you should only use it when you retire.

3. again allot another ten percent (10%) for your emergency fund. this is to ensure that your retirement fund is safe from your emergency needs. put this to your preferred bank or cooperatives to maintain the liquidity of your money.

note: for emergency purposes, you will need at least six (6) times equivalent of your monthly income.

4. live on the remaining seventy percent (70%). yes, you read it right--live on the remaining 70% of your monthly income. you will need to prioritize your expenses. avoid unnecessary spending. delay self-gratification. learn to simplify your lifestyle. don't spend more than what you earn. that's suicide. if you think that you cannot do it, think again. if there's a will, there's a way. you must have will power, determination, discipline, patience and hard work.

note: if your expenses overshoot your budget and you still need to get more money to augment your expenses, try looking for other means. try selling anything. as long as it's legal and moral. remember, money problems are just mind problems. you can solve it.

5. ensure your family. your insurance is for your future needs if you live longer. but what if you die young or become physically handicapped? what will happen to your family? what will happen to those people that are dependent on you and your income? don't leave them helpless. if possible, get a life insurance to protect your family/dependents.

note: to compute on how much insurance that you really need to get, multiply your annual expenses by 10.

source: Bo Sanchez, 8 Secrets of the Truly Rich