Question 1

How do I make a monthly budget?

Accepted Answer

Start with your take-home income, then list your fixed and variable expenses — housing, food, transport, and everything else. Subtract expenses from income to see what's left. Aim to keep a positive gap and direct it to savings.

Question 2

What is a good savings rate?

Accepted Answer

Many planners suggest saving at least 20% of after-tax income, but any positive rate is progress. The calculator shows your rate as a percentage so you can set a target and track it month to month.

Question 3

What if my expenses are higher than my income?

Accepted Answer

A negative result means you're overspending. Look at the largest categories first — usually housing and food — and trim variable spending, or find ways to raise income until the gap turns positive.

Question 4

How can Lumi help me stick to this budget?

Accepted Answer

Lumi tracks every expense in seconds by voice, Back Tap, or Apple Pay and forecasts your month-end balance, so your real spending stays in line with the plan you set here.

Monthly Budget Calculator

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