Common September Budget Categories to Plan For
Nights are getting cooler and school is in full swing in some areas and will be starting soon in New York. That means September is right around the corner so it’s time to work on your September budget. Here are 10 common things you might want to include in your budget for September.
1. Labor Day (US)
Are you going away for a long weekend or having a cookout with friends? Bump up the food and travel expenses. Before you go shopping check out this post on 5 Tips for Saving on Groceries.
2. Halloween
There are 2 types of people; the ones who are buying the Halloween candy and decorates that have already hit the shelves in August and the ones who will will think about it in October (me).
Which one are you?
If you’re somewhere in the middle then maybe you will want to do some Halloween shopping in September.
3. September Birthdays and Anniversaries
We will be celebrating a September birthday for our oldest in mid September! This year she will be turning 10!
Party saving tip – digital invitations! You can get a free account on Canva and search for “virtual invitation” templates. Then just customize your information, download then send to your friends via text!
4. Fall Activities
Tis the season for craft fairs and apple picking in Western New York. A few years ago we enjoyed apple picking as a family. It was fun to roam around the orchard and fill up a box with apples.
September also means football. If you’re a fan then don’t forget to include tickets, parking, food and drinks in your entertainment category.
5. Fall Clothing
I am not ready to put away the shorts just yet but I am in need of a wardrobe upgrade. And if you have kids, they might need some new clothes or shoes to fit the season.
It’s also a great time to stock up on summer clothing for next year since they will all be on sale.
6. Christmas Savings
Christmas is just a few months away so if you haven’t saved for Christmas yet then now is the time to do so! Start saving a little each month so your December budget isn’t so tight. To learn more about how to set up savings for Christmas, read How to Start a Sinking Fund.
7. Winter Prep
I hate to say this but winter is coming. Whether you are closing your pool or saving for snow tires on your vehicle, make sure you have those costs accounted for. If your home heat runs on oil make sure that tank is full or start saving up for when you need it.
8. Dance Class
We have 2 tiny dancers in this house. And it doesn’t stop at the monthly cost for classes, costume prices are ridiculous!
9. School
You are probably set for most of your school supplies but don’t forget to factor in school lunch costs. Even though it takes some extra time, packing a lunch is more cost effective and a great way to save on food.
School pictures are something to think about as well.
10. MOPS Membership
Are you a mother with kids between newborn and preschool age? If so then you have to look for a local MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group. MOPS is an international group that supports women in their season of motherhood. I have been a part of MOPS since my oldest was about a year old and it has been a lifesaver while navigating motherhood of young children. Look for a local group at mops.org.
Make Your September Budget Today
Having an September budget will give you the financial confidence in knowing that you can kickoff the fall season without worrying about money! Making a money plan each month is a foundational step for Financial Wellness.
Download my free Financial Wellness Checklist to help you stay on track!
Related Articles to Help Plan Your September Budget
Make a Budget: 5 Simple Steps to Get Started
How a Zero-Based Budget Can Provide Money Confidence
August Budget: 7 Things You Don’t Want to Forget
6 Tips on How to Avoid Overspending at Christmas
