Money Series #1 — Budgeting 101: The 50/30/20 that actually fits SA incomes
2025-08-15Series: Money#budgeting#personal-finance#south-africa
Welcome to the Money series. If your income fluctuates, pick a base income (your realistic monthly minimum) and budget from that — any extra goes to **goals**.
This is a practical framework, not advice. Adapt to your situation.
50% Needs: electricity, transport, food basics. 30% Wants: data bundles, eating out, small treats. 20% Future: emergency fund (R1,000 → R10,000), debt snowball, investments.
Envelope tips
- Buy electricity in planned blocks to avoid tariff steps shocking you.
- Track transport by R/km (fuel + tyres + service) if you drive for work.
- Review weekly: what envelope leaked? Plug it next month.