Seeking Advice on Current Budget

[Zachary Blomberg]

Hello! I have been struggling to understand why I can't meet my budget goals each month with a more than reasonable budget of $5000. I live in Phoenix and am married with two little girls, ages 2 and 4 months. We do not live an extravagant lifestyle and in fact feel like we're living a very frugal one, but we still end up going over most months. I was wondering if you could spot check my budget and let me know if there are areas where I can cut down on spending. Thanks!

House Payment	$ 1,787.00
Charity (I'm not really looking to change this one)	$ 550.00
Phone	$ 60.00
Utilities (Electric, Water)	$ 270.00
Auto - Insurance	$ 124.00
Life Insurance	$ 75.00
Internet	$ 50.00
Subscriptions (Spotify/Netflix/YTTV/Google Storage)	$ 35.00
Gym	$ 10.00
Groceries	$ 550.00
Shopping	$ 300.00
Discretionary	$ 350.00
Home Services (Maintenance, Home Security, Pest Control, etc.)	$ 175.00
Gas	$ 175.00
Home Supplies	$ 150.00
Fast Food	$ 112.00
Restaurants & Bars	$ 100.00
Amusement/Entertainment	$ 50.00
Car Maintainance/Carwash	$ 50.00

[Bjorn Ahlblad]

@Zachary Blomberg I actually like your budget It is a good one. When I was a younger man with a family, and feeling the pinch, I found it easier to increase my income than try to budget my expenses. So I would sit down and plan how I could  be of more value and make more money. 

There are employers who might pay more, there is on the job training leading to a better career, inside or outside your company, there are university courses-accounting, software engineering etc that would make you more money. I always found that increasing my skills and income to be an easier way to a better life. Decide on the right path for you. Be ready and qualified when the opportunity presents. All the best!