TIME TO GET YOUR APRIL BUDGET READY!

Another month in the “new” year is over. In fact, we’re just about one-fourth of the way through the year. Don’t forget to make sure your budget is ready for April! Here are some potential expenses you may need to include in your April budget.

It’s always a good idea to do your research ahead of time to avoid reworking the entire thing or calling it a lost cause for the month. Check out the handy list below and make sure to add everything relevant to your household to next month’s budget.

POTENTIAL EXPENSES TO INCLUDE IN YOUR APRIL BUDGET

• SUMMER CHILDREN’s ACTIVITIES – Swim lesson registration in our area usually starts in April. Both kids are going to summer camp, and one is still in sports. It’s amazing all the little things you find out you have to buy that you needed yesterday.
• LAWN & GARDEN PROJECTS – Plan to do any landscaping this spring or summer? Maybe you have a garden planned or already in the ground. Be sure to budget for any tools, supplies, and plants you plan to purchase. It never hurts to set up a little sinking fund for bigger outdoor projects (or any project/purchase really). I really missed having a garden last year.
• QUARTERLY CONTRACTS – We have a pest control and termite contract we pay on a quarterly basis. It’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind it brings. I don’t like spiders, so it’s in the budget. You might pay insurance or another essential expense on a quarterly basis. Don’t forget it in your budget.
• PRESCHOOL APPLICATION FEES – A lot of preschools open up enrollment for the fall semester in April. This includes paying the application and other fees. If you have a soon-to-be preschool-age child check with the school so you’re ready.
• MOTHER’S DAY – I know, I know; Mother’s Day is in May. It’s May 10th this year if you’re wondering. Go ahead and include gifts for the moms in your life in your April budget to avoid last-minute shopping. If you have to order Mom’s gift, it’ll also help save on shipping fees. Plus, jewelry and other common gifts for moms will start going on sale in April.
• SUMMER VACATION & OTHER SINKING FUNDS – Don’t forget those sinking funds! You can have fun even if you don’t plan to go on a typical vacation this summer. Rent a cabin, take the kids fishing, camp out, or visit a few museums. If not, it’s always a good idea to set money aside for that future dream vacation. We’re already planning our summer and fall mini-getaways.
• TAX PREPARATION FEES – If you haven’t yet filed, be sure to include the tax preparer’s fee in your April budget (if you don’t plan to prepare them yourself). Many preparers charge a set fee per document needed, so it shouldn’t be too hard to estimate. If your taxes aren’t too complicated and you have the time, spare yourself the expense and do it yourself.
• SPRING CLOTHING FOR NEXT YEAR – April is a good month to shop for next year on clearance. You might even start setting money aside for that back-to-school wardrobe. You know, just in case the kiddos hit a growth spurt in August. Let’s be honest; it always seems to happen right after you purchase a full season’s wardrobe. Either that or they destroy almost everything you just bought.
• WEDDING AND GRADUATION GIFTS – The season is almost upon us; you may have already received save-the-date cards or know a few future graduates. On a side note, since the wedding and graduation season is fast approaching, you can find some great deals on cookware. Start saving in your April budget, don’t get overwhelmed closer to the shower and party dates.

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? GET THAT APRIL BUDGET READY NOW AND STRESS LESS ABOUT IT LATER!

This is by no means an exhaustive list of all the possible expenses, but it should give you a head start. Be sure to check out my budget tips to see a full list of potential expenses to expect every month. And check out the new additions to the Recipe Page as well.

Sharing is caring!