Single Mom Budget Planner
Free monthly budget calculator built for single moms. Enter your income and expenses below to see exactly where your money goes and get personalized tips to stretch every dollar.
Your Monthly Income
Enter your total monthly take-home pay (after taxes). Include child support, side hustle income, and any government assistance.
Monthly Expenses
Fill in your estimated monthly costs for each category. Leave blank any that don't apply.
Your Budget Summary
Expense Breakdown
50/30/20 Budget Check
The 50/30/20 rule suggests: 50% for Needs, 30% for Wants, and 20% for Savings & Debt.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I budget as a single mom on a low income?
Start by tracking every dollar coming in and going out. Use the 50/30/20 rule as a guide: 50% for needs (housing, food, utilities), 30% for wants, and 20% for savings and debt. Our free budget calculator above does this math for you automatically. Even small amounts saved consistently add up over time.
What percentage of income should go to rent?
Financial experts recommend spending no more than 30% of your gross monthly income on housing. For single moms, this can be challenging in high-cost areas. If your rent exceeds 30%, look into housing assistance programs like Section 8 vouchers, or use our Grants & Aid Finder to explore options.
How much should I save each month as a single mom?
Aim for at least 10-20% of your income if possible. Start small if needed — even $25/month builds a safety net over time. Focus first on a $500 emergency fund, then work toward 3 months of expenses. Use this budget planner to find areas where you can redirect even a few dollars toward savings.
What government assistance programs can help with my budget?
As a single mom, you may qualify for SNAP (food assistance), WIC, TANF, childcare subsidies, LIHEAP (utility assistance), Medicaid, and housing vouchers. Each program has different income thresholds. Check our Grants & Aid Finder to see which programs match your situation.
Is this budget planner really free?
Yes, 100% free with no signup required. Your data stays on your device and is never sent to any server. You can print or save your budget results for your records. We built this tool specifically for single moms who need simple, practical financial tools without the cost.