How To Set Up Your Budget Spreadsheet in 5 easy steps
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Simple. Quick. Totally non-intimidating.
📘 Free Guide:
How to Set Up Your Google Budget Spreadsheet in 5 Easy Steps
For the girlies, the guys, the grown-ups, and the I’m-just-trying-my-best crew.
Step 1: 📥 Make a Copy
After purchasing your template, you’ll receive a link to your Google Spreadsheet.
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Click “Make a Copy” when prompted
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Rename your copy so you know it’s yours
Example:Shirley's Budget 2025 (Let’s gooo 💸)
🔒 Don’t worry — no one else can access your copy. It’s 100% private to your Google Drive.
Step 2: 💸 Input Your Monthly Income
Go to the “Income” tab
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Add all sources of income: job, side hustle, passive income, etc.
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You can break it down weekly, biweekly, or monthly
Watch the spreadsheet do the math for you. (Yes, really.)
Step 3: 💳 Add Your Monthly Expenses
Head over to the “Expenses” or “Bill Tracker” tab
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List your regular expenses: rent, utilities, groceries, subscriptions, etc.
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Add due dates, amounts, and payment methods if needed
Optional but helpful: Color-code fixed vs. flexible expenses.
Step 4: 🎯 Set Savings & Debt Goals
Use the “Savings Tracker” and/or “Debt Payoff” tabs
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Input your current balances and goals
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Watch your progress bars move as you add payments or deposits
✨ Shirley Tip: Name your savings goals something cute like “Weekend Getaway” or “New Planner Fund” — it makes saving way more fun.
Step 5: 📊 Check Your Dashboard
Head back to the Overview tab for a snapshot of your month:
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See income vs. spending at a glance
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Track where your money’s going
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Spot trends and overspending before they sneak up on you 👀
Bonus: Most templates include auto-generated charts — because budgeting deserves a glow-up.
💡 Pro Tips:
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Bookmark your spreadsheet for quick access
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Review your budget weekly — light a candle, make it a vibe
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Make tweaks each month as your goals shift
🛍 Ready to Start?
If you haven’t grabbed your template yet, you can get the full Google Spreadsheet Budget & Finance Kit here, It’s the easiest way to organize your money, track your progress, and plan with purpose.
Plan smart. Live freely. Spend with clarity.
Yours Truly, Shirley 💛