Life isn't getting any less expensive. In fact, it might be getting harder and harder to keep track of how and when you spend. One of the best ways to cope with an increased cost of living is to keep a budget each month, quarter, and year. By allocating a certain amount of money to each category of your budget, you can keep track of your finances more easily—and know when you have to say "no." Having a budget also helps ensure you have money for the things that can take you by surprise, the unexpected expenses that can trip people up or get them into more debt.
Intrigued? Click on to read up on the categories you need to account for when making a budget.