Planning ahead involves, keeping track of what your life expenses are. You need to list out all your bills and then make a list of what it is you want in life. You will need to know somewhat what your income will be. If you are just starting out, do not use all your income from the first check you receive, the next may be less. Don't start out buying a lot of new things, because you had one big pay check. You will need to save some money up for when you are short the money you need to pay your bills.

With a variable income you will need to plan on using only the amount of your smallest paycheck. Most people who have a variable income have some range that they can get paid. Never plan on bonuses, or overtime. These can be used for special wants in your life or better yet save them up for when you may be short funds.

Living on a variable income will necessitate saving some money. This saving should be out of every paycheck if it is possible. Saving should be part of every budget, but especially for someone living on a variable income. You will need to have at least 6 months of income saved for emergencies. Some financiers even say save one year's income for emergencies.

Most people do not have six months income hanging around, so you will most likely need to start saving up for your emergency fund. Set aside a percentage or certain amount of each paycheck, no matter what the amount of the check is. This way you can have some money set aside for emergencies. Living on a variable income will most likely make it hard to pay for emergencies, like an emergency room visit. Get some money saved up so that you are not stretched too thin on your next paycheck if an emergency does come up.

When you are living on a variable income, it might be a good idea to get set up on monthly payments. Not for any and everyday purchases, but for bills like power and gas, or insurance premiums. This way you will not have a large sum due every six months or once a year. This can help you know what there is to pay each month and not get caught unprepared.

The last of the five tips for living on a variable income is to pay your expenses first. Some people may not want to do this but it is an important concept for every responsible person to grasp. Especially if you are on a variable income, you will need to pay the bills and expenses before you can splurge and buy a new DVD set of your favorite show.

So when you are looking for tips to help you with your variable income budget, try these five tips. Plan ahead and be prepared. Plan on the least amount of income you have received and save when there is more than you have planned on. Save at least 6 months of expenses for emergencies. Sign up for monthly payments plans for bills when you can. Pay for your expenses before your wants.