5 Tips on How to Stick to Your Budget

As the year begins and you plan for the months ahead, staying on track with your budget can help you focus on your financial goals. Managing your money while working and making progress toward your career goals takes some practice, but it’s absolutely possible! Whether you’re saving for something special, covering monthly expenses, or simply trying to make your paycheck go a little further, having a plan makes a big difference. Once you have that plan or budget, we have five tips to help you stay on track: from making a shopping list and keeping your budget close at hand, to finding free resources at your local library, and reminding yourself not to give up when it gets tough.

Make a List Before Shopping, Even Online

Before you head to the store or start adding items to your online cart, take a few minutes to make a list. Writing down what you need helps you stay focused, avoid impulse buys, and stick to your budget.

If you want to stretch your grocery dollars, check out the tools and resources at MyPlate.gov. You’ll find free tips, recipes, and shopping guides that can help you plan nutritious meals without overspending.

A little planning before you shop can save you time, money, and stress.

Keep Your Budget with You

Your budget is your blueprint for managing your money and reaching your financial goals, so keep it close and easy to access. Whether you prefer using a notebook, a phone app, or a simple spreadsheet, having your budget handy helps you make informed choices wherever you are.

If you are out shopping, checking your budget can remind you of what you’ve already spent and what is still available for the month. If you are online, having your budget nearby can help you pause and think before making a purchase.

The more often you check and follow your budget, the more likely you are to stay on track.

Be Flexible

A budget is a plan, and like any plan, you can alter it as your resources, needs, and goals change. If you find that certain expense categories are too tight, adjust them. Maybe groceries cost more one month, or your transportation costs go up. Can you spend less on something not as essential? Your budget should work for you, not the other way around.

As your situation changes, you may find you have room in your budget for saving. Even small amounts add up over time and can help you prepare for emergencies, new goals, or unexpected opportunities.

If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it’s important to understand the asset limits that may affect your benefits. In most cases, you can have up to $2,000 in resources as an individual or $3,000 as a couple without affecting your eligibility. Resources include things like cash or money in a bank account.

To save more without going over these limits, consider opening an ABLE account. ABLE accounts allow eligible people with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses, such as housing, education, transportation, and health care. Savings in an ABLE account do not generally count toward SSI resource limits (up to certain amounts).

You might also explore a Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS), which lets you set aside income or resources for a specific work goal, such as paying for education, training, or equipment. Money used in a PASS is not counted toward SSI income or resource limits, which can help you build toward long-term employment goals.

Regularly reviewing and updating your budget, as necessary, helps you stay realistic, prepared, and confident as you move toward financial independence.

Visit Your Local Library

Your local library is a great place to save money and build skills that support your career goals. Libraries offer much more than books, and most of their resources are completely free.

You can borrow audiobooks, movies, and magazines instead of buying them, and most libraries provide free access to computers, Wi-Fi, and printers. Many also host resume workshops, interview practice sessions, and career coaching. Check whether your library offers free online classes in technology, budgeting, or professional development.

Exploring what your library has to offer can help you stretch your budget, grow your skills, and move closer to your employment goals.

Stay the Course

Sticking to a budget means developing a routine. Making that list before you shop, reviewing your progress, adjusting when needed, and seeking low or no cost resources all take time and patience. There may be months when it feels difficult or when unexpected expenses throw things off. That’s normal. What matters most is that you keep going.

Each time you check your spending, make adjustments, or reach a small goal, you build stronger financial habits and more confidence in yourself. Over time, those small efforts add up to big results and greater independence.

Remember, budgeting isn’t about perfection. It is about progress and finding what helps you stay in control of your money and your future. Keep going. You’re investing in yourself, and it is worth it.

Additional Resources

These free and trusted resources can help you learn more about budgeting, saving, and managing your benefits while you work toward your goals:

• MyMoney.gov is the federal government’s official financial education website. Learn about creating a budget, setting goals, saving, and making informed financial decisions.
• AmericaSaves.org offers free tools, tips, and encouragement to help you set savings goals, track your progress, and stay motivated.
• FDIC Money Smart: Explore free online financial education lessons designed to help you build skills for saving, spending, and planning for the future.

Build Confidence with Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, you can work with service providers to help you understand how work will affect your benefits and identify other Work Incentives that make it easier to work while maintaining your financial stability.

If you’re ready to explore your options, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

Taking control of your budget and your career is possible with the right tools and support. Ticket to Work can help you get started.