Why Most Budgets Don’t Work

Many couples think budgeting takes too much time, or they’ve tried before and given up because it felt restrictive. The truth? A budget should give you freedom, clarity, and peace of mind. And it doesn’t need to take hours to create.

In just 30 minutes, you and your spouse can create a zero-based budget that tells every dollar where to go before it disappears.

Step 1: List Your Monthly Income (5 Minutes)

Start with what’s coming in. Write down:

• Paychecks (both of you)

• Side hustle or part-time income

• Any other consistent sources

This is your starting number, the total you’ll give assignments to.

Step 2: Write Out Your Priorities (10 Minutes)

Dave Ramsey teaches to budget in this order, covering the essentials first, then tackling debt and savings.

1. Giving – Tithe or charitable giving (if part of your values)

2. Needs – Housing, utilities, food, transportation

3. Debt Payments – Beyond minimums if possible

4. Savings – Emergency fund or sinking funds

5. Lifestyle – Fun money, subscriptions, extras

This order keeps couples focused on what matters most, not random spending.

Step 3: Give Every Dollar a Job (10 Minutes)

This is the heart of zero-based budgeting. Take your income number and assign every single dollar to a category until you hit zero.

Example:

• Income: $5,000

• Housing: $1,500

• Food: $600

• Utilities: $250

• Transportation: $400

• Debt Snowball: $1,000

• Savings: $500

• Fun Money: $300

• Miscellaneous: $450

Total = $5,000. Every dollar has an assignment.

Step 4: Schedule Your First Money Date (5 Minutes)

Sit down together weekly for a quick 5–10 minute check-in. Talk about:

• What worked this week

• Where you overspent

• Adjustments for next week

These money dates keep you aligned, accountable, and united.

Final Thoughts

Budgeting doesn’t have to be complicated or restrictive. In just 30 minutes, you and your spouse can create a simple, zero-based plan that puts you back in control.

At Harmon Solutions, we help couples follow proven principles to pay off debt, save money, and finally work as a team with their finances. Ready to take the first step? Book your free introduction session today .