50/30/20 budget calculator
Split your take-home pay into needs, wants and savings, and compare it with what you spend now. Free, no sign-up. Your numbers stay in your browser.
Want the full picture?
The 2027 Budget Planner spreadsheet does this and more, month by month, and saves your numbers. USD 9, works in Excel and Google Sheets.
What is the 50/30/20 rule?
It's a simple starting point for a budget: about half of your take-home pay goes to needs (housing, utilities, groceries, insurance, minimum debt payments), about 30% to wants (eating out, subscriptions, hobbies, travel) and about 20% to savings and extra debt payments.
It isn't a rule you have to hit exactly. In an expensive city, needs can easily take 60% or more. Use the percentages that fit your life and adjust as things change.
Questions
Are debt payments a need or savings?
Minimum payments are a need. Anything extra you pay to clear debt faster counts with savings.
Should I use gross or take-home pay?
Take-home pay: the amount that actually reaches your account after tax and deductions.
Is this financial advice?
No. It's a calculator based on the numbers you enter. For advice on your situation, talk to a qualified professional.