February Budget: 5 Things You Don't Want to Forget

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Updated: 1/18/24

Common February Budget Categories

Good news…you only have to plan for 28 days for your February budget! 😆

Between Valentine’s Day and preparing for the spring ahead, there are some categories that you might want to include this month. This post will highlight 5 common budget categories for February!

1. Valentine’s Day

Christmas was barely over in December before the shelves were cleared out to make room for Valentine’s Day. Stores love to capitalize on holidays but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to enjoy this day with your Valentine. Cards, candy, flowers, date nights should all be considered when you are budgeting.

You will see Valentine’s Day specials in restaurants, which basically means they bundled their normal menu to increase the price. That’s not a bad thing but if you want a dinner on a budget, skip the specials or go on an off night. Personally we like to have a date night in, everyone else is out so places are really busy anyway.

And don’t forget about those classroom Valentine’s Day cards! A great way to save some money on Valentine’s Day cards is to have our child make their own. Keep it simple and fun with my Heart Maze Valentine’s Day Cards!

For under $4.00, you can download the Heart Maze Valentine’s Day Cards and print as many as you need! Your kids will enjoy customizing the cards by coloring the lettering. Their friend will have fun doing the maze!

Better for your budget and it will keep your kids busy!

2. Higher Heating Costs

Fellow Northerners can say “winter is officially here” with the sub-zero temperatures and piles of snow. Our heat has been running non-stop, which will drive up heating costs for the month. January and February are typically the higher months for heating so don’t forget to reflect that in your budget.

Also, energy costs are higher right now. I already got my electricity bill for February…eek!

3. Tax Services and Fees

I am a self proclaimed procrastinator but one thing we don’t wait on is completing our taxes. Why would I want to wait to get my money back? If you have to owe taxes then I can see why you would want to wait, but everyone can still plan for the filing fees or accountant fees.

Tax day is Monday, April 18, 2024.

4. Seasonal Activities

Do you love winter activities? Personally I don’t. My body much prefers warmer weather. But if you plan to hit the slopes a few times this season then kick up your entertainment budget!

5. Saving for Spring Vacation

Planning on a spring (or summer) vacation? It’s time to start saving up! Research how much money you will need to cover food, travel, lodging and entertainment then start your sinking fund with extra money you have this month.

Want to hit the beach this spring? Then check out my tips on how to save money at Myrtle Beach, SC!

Plan Your February Budget with Confidence!

Now that you have an idea what to plan for in February it’s time to complete your zero-based budget! If you’re not sure how to do a written budget, check out the related articles below!

February Budget: 5 Things You Don’t Want to Forget