The 50/30/20 Budget Rule: How to Allocate Your Income
Sources & Methodology
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
All figures are estimates based on publicly available data. Use the linked calculators to model your own situation.
Related Calculators
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a need?▼
Essentials you must pay: housing, food, utilities, insurance, transport to work, and minimum debt payments.
Is 20% savings realistic?▼
Not always, especially in high-cost areas. Start where you can and increase over time; some savings beats none.
What if needs exceed 50%?▼
Trim wants first, then look at housing or income changes before sacrificing savings entirely.