Free Monthly Budget Template
A simple, beginner-friendly monthly budget with income tracking, separate fixed and variable expenses, a savings section, and a summary dashboard that totals everything automatically. Free for Excel or Google Sheets.
Download for Excel (.xlsx)Works in Google Sheets too — open Google Sheets and choose File → Import.
What's inside
- Income tab for every source — job, side income, freelance, investments
- Separate Fixed and Variable Expenses tabs with budgeted vs actual columns
- Savings & Debt tab positioned before discretionary spending (pay yourself first)
- Summary Dashboard that pulls every total automatically — net surplus and savings rate
- Annual Overview to track all 12 months and spot seasonal patterns
- Works in Excel and Google Sheets — free, no email required
How to use it
- 1Download the template (or open it in Google Sheets via File → Import).
- 2Enter your income, then list your fixed expenses and set variable spending targets.
- 3Add your savings and extra debt payments before discretionary categories.
- 4Check the Summary Dashboard any time to see your surplus, savings rate, and where you stand.
Skip the manual data entry
ReceiptSync scans your receipts and pushes the data straight into a spreadsheet like this — no typing. Snap a photo and it's logged and categorized.
A simple spreadsheet is the most reliable way to take control of your money — you own the data, there's no subscription, and it works offline. This template is pre-built so you can start today instead of designing tabs and formulas from scratch. For a full walkthrough and tips, see the monthly budget setup guide and scanning receipts to Google Sheets.
Frequently asked questions
Is the monthly budget template really free?
Yes — download it directly, no email signup or payment required.
Should I use Excel or Google Sheets?
Either works — the template has the same formulas in both. Google Sheets is free and syncs across devices; Excel is better if you work offline or already have Microsoft 365. Open it in Sheets via File → Import.
How many categories should I track?
Start with the 10–15 categories in the template. If you keep overspending in 'miscellaneous,' split it out; if a category is always exactly on budget, you can combine it.
Can I automate the expense tracking?
Yes — ReceiptSync scans your receipts and syncs the data straight into a spreadsheet like this one, so your actual-spending columns fill in without manual entry.