Most people assume when you work two jobs you have unlimited cash to do anything and everything, and if you budget correctly you can! The first and most important thing you need to do is write down everything. Second, determine what you're going to be making; then figure out what is needed and what isn't. Finally, make a plan and stick to it.

Write down everything

This should include your bills that you have on a monthly basis that won't change. For example, your rent or mortgage, heat, electricity, food and even gas for your car are all things that you know you will need on a monthly basis. Try and estimate your payments next to them; this will help in future budgeting steps. There are some companies that will allow for a set payment every month with one lump sum at the end. If you haven't paid your entire bill in the 12 months this may help with your budgeting as you will always have that set amount for that utility every month. Now that you've got the things that won't change, write down the ones that will. Maybe you like to pamper yourself with getting your hair or nails done; maybe it's a night out with friends or perhaps just a few extra dollars a day to go out to eat. Be sure to put this in a different spot so you know what you need and what you may not NEED but want.

Determine your paychecks

Do you get paid every week or every-other? Are there tips that can be included or bonuses? Figure this out for both jobs and determine what you will be making per week (or per two weeks). Starting off, only include what your hourly wage is for both jobs, (this will be how you will pay for your bills that won't change) then estimate any tips or bonuses that you may be getting (this amount will be for the fun stuff you would like to do). While determining your checks it may also be beneficial to take a set amount and put it away in an account for emergencies or large expenses that may arise. This could be for things like your car breaking down or even something fun, like a weekend getaway.

Figure out what you need and what you don't

Maybe you really like your nails done or you just absolutely can't stand not going out with the girls but compare these wants with things like heat or a roof over your head they may not look as important. It's ok if you have many things that you want; that's only human but know your priorities when budgeting and where certain perks come into play.

Make a plan and stick to it

This is possibly the most important step because no matter what you've already done, if you don't stick to what needs to be done you may fall into debt. Figure out when your bills need to be paid and spread them out evenly between paychecks. This will help your needs to be met but you won't have to shell it all out at once. Once you've placed all your bills into a slot and you know that they can be paid, determine how much is left and place some of it into an emergency account. This is the first part of your plan and possibly the hardest. By now you're thinking you have no money left over for you but that is why only your hourly rate was considered. You now have your bonus or tip money that can be used for things that you WANT. This is just as important to spread out and consider as the need money. Now that you have planned for anything you may want or need stick to it! In the beginning write down every penny you spend and where you spend it, this will help you stick to it until you get a routine down.

All of these, and living within your means will lead to your bills being paid and you getting to have fun as well.

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