The envelope system

The Envelope system is a way to track your variable expenses like food, entertainment, and drinks.

This method, preferably used weekly, allocates a certain amount in each category in labeled envelopes (food, drinks, movies, etc.). Once the envelope is empty, you are done spending in tha...

• When you want to avoid getting into (more) debt: Since your debit card is connected to a checking account, you theoretically only spend what is available in your account.
• You want to pay for everyday purchases conveniently—things like gas, grocerie...

Take a hard look at how much you are spending day to day. Every time you spend money, write it down as it happens in a little notebook or log it into an app.

Alternatively, use the envelope method. Make an envelope for each of your non-fixed expenses, like groceries, clo...