BBP REAL LIFE BUDGET | Budgeting When You Don't Make Enough

It's time for another Real Life Budget. We asked my readers to submit their REAL information. Real spending, real debt, and real savings goals.
I am taking those real-life numbers and showing you how I would organize and budget that information using my Budget By Paycheck® Method.
In this video, I will be showing the real numbers from a reader, Jillian. Jillian and her husband live in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Currently, she and her husband do not bring in enough money to cover their expenses.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction
00:41 About Jillian
02:40 Jillian's Why
03:50 Jillian's Income
04:29 Jillian's Bills
06:00 Jillian's Variable Expenses
06:29 Jillian's Debt
08:50 Income - Expenses
09:46 Bare Bones Budget
15:14 My Recommendations
➡️ HOW I TRACK MY SPENDING: bit.ly/3aIe89I
➡️ HOW TO USE A BUDGET CALENDAR: bit.ly/2IzF2Vj
➡️ FINDING YOUR WHY: bit.ly/3aJUryj
➡️ THE BUDGET MOM'S FINANCIAL FREEDOM STEPS: bit.ly/3cfJXsp
➡️ HOW TO GET STARTED WITH THE CASH ENVELOPE METHOD: bit.ly/2vQJaO5
➡️ HOW TO CREATE A PLAN OF ATTACK TO PAY OFF DEBT: bit.ly/2wDETxF
ABOUT ME
I'm the blogger behind www.thebudgetmom.com. I have a rambunctious 6-year-old son, live in Washington, and I'm passionate about helping people with money management and personal finance. Let me know what you like to learn more about! Leave me comments and suggestions on my video and let me know!
YOU CAN FIND ME AT:
📝 BLOG: www.thebudgetmom.com
📘 FACEBOOK: / thebudgetmom
📸 INSTAGRAM: / thebudgetmom
📌 PINTEREST: / thebudgetmom
GET STARTED
➡️Start Here: www.thebudgetmom.com/start-here/
➡️Free Email Course: bit.ly/2UYgNFf
➡️Free Resources: bit.ly/2PDmTHz
➡️GET 10% OFF my popular Budget-by-Paycheck Workbook - Coupon Code TBMKZbin bit.ly/2CR7U9n

[@amberdavies3178]

I would love to see more “we don’t make enough “ budget reviews like this.

[@gma904]

Definitely!

[@alethlumagbasboniol4473]

Same here! I'm # 579👍

[@catherinewilke5583]

These people have spending and income problems. And perhaps they need to grow up. I can’t believe the ridiculous expenses they have.

[@sierrabookishlife]

Same!

[@navywifey0307]

My in-laws are great with money and when my husband and I got married they told us to live off (bare bones budget) on the lesser income. So if one of us lost our job, we could at least survive. I'm so grateful for that tip because it saved us when I was furloughed.

[@Gxbrxela]

i’ve never even thought of this. i work two full time jobs. i’ve been struggling with my bills but i’m gonna try this method now! thank you for your comment.

[@queenmarieannie]

@@lynnfennema5067 she added 700, not cut 700

[@Maprunner-zu6dt]

@@lynnfennema5067 the first deficit was just after looking at fixed bills like rent and utilities. The final deficit was after also including variable expenses like food and gas.

[@ChrisW228]

Yup. Same here. I keep our credit excellent, but my health is poor, so we bought a house much lower than we were approved for. The plan is that if I have to stop working (or he loses his job, whatever), we can cut to bare bones and be fine.

[@Nwakaego_]

That is great advice!

[@aninsidestory]

Imagine this being a class in high school for every student, not just some!! ❤️⭐️💜

[@amywalker7515]

It's called Home Ec.

[@AllieA7]

@@amywalker7515 Home Ec only taught me how to write a check 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@vc663]

True. They fail to teach about money, budgeting and finances in school.

[@ricanbabiigurl]

We never had home ec in school

[@arriajnai]

@@amywalker7515urban schools don’t get home ec, public city schools get no extra help!!

[@susanquinlan7426]

My husband proved to be very humble when we were broke at one time. He did not think about his pride. He ate it. I have forever been impressed with his willingness to do this. I admire him for this. This is truly what a brave person does. Bite the bullet and care for loved ones.

[@christinafreithoffer1700]

I've been there before....for sure😁 I got rid of all my "TV" outlets for a few months. When I was able to get them back I realized I didn't want them! Four years later I still don't watch TV! I paint, read, play guitar, hike,see friends, Create things and have an online business. Being in the red saved my life, lol

[@candy2325]

Look at that! You end up not missing it!

[@Candiegirl13]

I agree tv isn't that important.

[@Julie-si3hi]

Yes,I've been doing this too.

[@crazycatlady312]

I try to tell my mom this all the time. She's subscribed to a gazillion streaming services 🤦🏾‍♀️

[@tonyanorris6574]

I wish my husband would do this. Before we married I lived about 8 yrs without cable and i was fine. I got some news off of the internet. Occasionally bought, borrowed, or rented a new movie to watch. I read books, sewed, visited family, too long walks, free community events, and such.

[@falennewman7289]

I love that Miko is giving examples of how help the couple, and not shaming them. Miko is Amazing!😊 And I respect Jillian for sharing her budget / financial situation with us.

[@chanellekirch]

Yes! I love this so much!

[@falennewman7289]

@@canecorsomom2023 Wow, I'm glad your family got through a situation like that. We have all been through hardships. It's nice when people like you are open to discuss it. All the best to you and your family.🙂

[@samueljohn589]

*I'm 51 years old with no retirement plan yet,any suggestions on accumulating a million dollar portfolio within 12-18 months? I have currently saved a capital of $100k*

[@josephploan7133]

@@samueljohn589 Starting early is the best way of getting ahead to build wealth,investing remains the priority. Forex trading has plenty of opportunities to earn a decent payout,with the right skills and proper understanding of how the market works

[@mercytrust2964]

@@josephploan7133 I totally agree with you,Forex trading is the most profitable venture I ever invested in,I reached my goal of $500k yearly trade earnings, setting realistic goals is an essential part of trading

[@monica_30]

I remember when i had 3 jobs and my husband was making $200/week. We were "bare bones" for 3 years and slowly i left my jobs and my husband got pay increases and finally after 5 years of marriage we are finally budgeting for "fun". Im a stay at home mom and my husband became formen... keep ur faith because life doesn't stay the same .

[@oahuohanafrenchies]

❤

[@LivingModestlyNaturally]

I needed to see this comment. Very encouraging 😊

[@ToriGoldsworthyREALTOR]

This comment made me cry I currently am a stay at home mom with a disabled child trying to decide if my fiancé and I should even get married because my sons health insurance through the state allows us to not have medical debt. We are so heart broken trying to survive and I just want this hard part to be over. We made a bad home purchase that’s been a money pit for us so we are just trying to figure it all out.

[@bltpod]

Thank you for sharing this! Very inspirational. I needed to read this.

[@alizaquintanilla]

😢thanks for this! 🙏🏼

[@Mamachickys]

We've all been there. Miko is speaking the truth. My husband and I spent 1 year with $20 left over for groceries while trying to pay off our debt. A cart full of cup-o-noodles was all we would get but we made it through. BTW - I cannot eat a Cup-o-noodles now and every time I see them it fires me to continue to do better. Many blessings to this family.

[@main2333]

Heal from the processed foods. It’s what the criminal food industry want. Big Pharma alway waiting in the back of cvs or big lot stores. They target poor people.

[@Kimba29]

I love watching these real life budgets but I’d love a follow up video 6-12 so months later.. did they implement Miko’s recommendations? Are they on the right track? What did they learn?

[@AHStanley94]

Yes!

[@Mel-AU]

Yes this would be awesome 👏

[@angeladeborapontororing2435]

This is a great idea!

[@LizzieKidwell]

Yes I would love this!! Great idea!

[@thevictoriagoogin]

She did have a follow up with the first RLB she did so I'm hopeful more will come

[@ckametria]

I actually had to donate plasma for a while. The first month I made $700 and about $400 afterwards. Plus it helps save lives.

[@specialk8927]

It what happens to your body over time

[@britt1805]

I did this in my college days, it helped a lot. Nothing really happens you just have to stay hydrated. I had to eventually stop cause my Iron was too low, a problem I already had that randomly happens

[@dakotamabry1645]

I can't because I'm pregnant and my husband actually can't because it has something to do with his eyes ..

[@ilTHfeaa]

Idk if we get paid for that in canada :/

[@SanctifiedLady]

Should I fear the track marks or scars from the Donatation process?

[@katarh]

Just a note for my fellow nail-lovers on a budget out there: Salon gel style nails CAN BE DONE AT HOME for a fraction of the cost. The start up investment of an LED lamp, a base and top coat, a builder gel, a bottle of acetone, bag of cotton balls and aluminum foil, and a palette of 7 basic gel colors, can often be had for the cost of a single gel manicure at the salon. KZbin tutorials are free. A little bit of practice is involved, and doing it yourself takes twice as long since you can only do one hand at a time, but if you're in a position where you have more time than money, its totally worthwhile to learn. I have bling bling $100 value nails on for about two hours of my time every two weeks, and haven't spent more than about $50 total on my supplies in over a year. And I use it as an opportunity for some self care time / me time. (I still love the luxury of being able to go to the salon, but if you're running low on money and that's what you have to cut, you don't have to give up on that part of your beauty routine.)

[@veganamanda5345]

The husband needs to do more than part time until he starts the USPS job. Fast food is ALWAYS hiring and pays more than $100-200/week. Hulu, Netflix, Amazon, Xbox live, eyelash extensions- those are all luxury items to cut immediately until you are out of debt.

[@thebudgetmom]

Yes, that is what I recommended as well :-)

[@SGast]

400-500 for food seems about average but too much given the precarious situation they are in unless they life in a high cost of food area. I would expect that they could get it down with eating more cheap staple foods and reducing expensive items like off-season fruits/vegetables and meat/cheese.

[@katherinenelson5905]

IF they have 60 college credits MI is hurting for subs in all school districts, most pay $120 a day before tax. Plus I just checked and Amazon in Grand Rapids is hiring for $20.80 an hour plus $3000 sign on bonus.

[@genevieveleduc2208]

It’s just ridiculous how many of us just don’t realize how much subscriptions cost us, and most we don’t really use. Thanks for the reminders. :)

[@ChrisW228]

@@genevieveleduc2208 yup. We’re fine financially, but this has still been on my mind and is high on my list to go over soon.

[@LMPM0909]

Praying for Jillian (?) and her husband and all families struggling financially. ✝️❤️

[@bodyofhope]

When my husband and I were about to lose our home to foreclosure, I went to an advisor who got us down to a bare bones budget! I felt so relieved. It would've enabled us to pay back our debts over time, and keep our home by weeding out frivolous expenses temporarily. When I presented the plan to my husband, he said ABSOLUTELY NOT! He went nuts over the idea of going without our streaming services, cable, video games, his cigarettes, etc. I later tried to save the house by filing for bankruptcy while I was in the hospital fighting a rare brain disease, but in the end, he divorced me and he couldn't keep the house with his new wife. They abandoned it. I certainly wish I didn't have that foreclosure on my credit record when they didn't even stay in the house!

[@Dbb27]

While damaging, after foreclosure you can get a mortgage with FHA after two years.

[@viviannehernandez4515]

Im so sorry to hear all of this! If you are ever interested in buying a home again I know NACA is a big help. Best wishes!

[@rosevoydetich2665]

I also have a rare brain disease. I will be praying for you. Peace and blessings be with you.

[@es7691]

Not wanting to save your home by sacrificing streaming services was the red flag.

[@lindsayhundley1063]

I am happy you are free from the marriage from a man like that. If I a person is not willing to make the sacrifices to help out the other, it is not a union. God will bless you, and work hard along the way.

[@flyinggeckos123]

$400 a month for two peoples groceries is by far the easiest thing to cut, by about if not more than half. I would even cut Comcast temporarily too.

[@ashleyziegler4776]

Also, the 15:14 mark where you talk about how there is no shame to be in this position because it's temporary is just.... that was what I needed to hear. That was amazing!! Thank you, Miko.... tough love and all!

[@katethegratedcheese]

It's @19:14 and absolutely yes!!!

[@d.renemorgan8848]

The problem is these people are not just buying the bare minimum of stuff that they need, they are quite over indulgent and should be ashamed of the overindulgence in the fact that they do not have the money for it. If they had the money for it they could spend $80 on Scentsy smells for their house.. I just want to barf thinking about it. And $90 on eyelashes ffs where did she get the idea for that?

[@shawnmariemann]

I'm a single mom who hasn't been able to work full time due to a sick child and living off savings and side gig income. The bare bones budget is scary but necessary and it helps to know it won't always be this way as things in my life change. I have a "wish list" of things to put back into my budget and use that as motivation to find ways to bring in more income until I can get back to full time work. It's a great plan.

[@Julie-si3hi]

Hope your child is ok, yes I hear you on the Bate bones budget,love the idea of a wish list for when things may be better .

[@avarietyofthings8820]

Are you overspending? Same... Check out this video to learn how to stop! kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYPOpHeKoNx2jNk

[@ReiverGrad14]

I'm here too. It sucks.

[@titarod9953]

I was a single mom for many, many years and one of my kids was waiting for a liver transplant, it was extremely difficult, couldn’t worked because I needed to be at the hospital with my daughter. I couldn’t even have a barebone budget or any type of budget at all because there was no money to budget. I made it through those years with some social security for my daughter (only for when she was home not in hospital) and church assistance, I felt blessed to have some really compassionate people to help me and my babies. I sure hope your child is doing well and hopefully things start improving for you as it did for me. ❤️

[@joy3631]

I know this was a while ago so I don't know where you are now but there is also a lady on here (frugal fit mom or something like that) she give you recipes and ideas on getting a weeks worth of food on a very low budget

[@loe3175]

This tough love is honestly needed by so many of us, myself included.

[@KaysBudgetandPlans]

Before I started sharing my journey this was my exact problem. I was making enough to just barely pay all my fixed expenses and have a few dollars for food and gas. I knew I had to earn more money and I switched jobs in my company, doubled my income, and was able to breathe and get a lot of debt taken care of. The best part is that my old, low paying job got eliminated due to the pandemic so I saved myself just in time.

[@karenred12]

This is actually the most real life budget I have ever seen, thank you so much for showing this. I was getting very discouraged by other "real life budgets" because most people don't make much a month, well anyone in Ireland I know anyway.

[@lynnettemurphy8243]

I agree Karen. But at least in Ireland there's social welfare assistance. Even with minimum wage jobs there's the household benefits package. Also folk would probably qualify for a medical card, which is a huge benefit. Wish you well.

[@karenred12]

@@lynnettemurphy8243 my family make 7 euro too much for the medical card, we get no fuel allowance, no Christmas bonus. Can't save a deposit because we just pay rent, bills and food. Also we can't get the household budget. I stay home because right now we can't afford to send our 1 year old to creche if I was to work. I do agree that I prefer and love ireland but for most families the cost is unreal.

[@lisagardner9798]

I drive for all the delivery apps together just on the weekend and you can easily make $300 a weekend after paying for your gas. That’s $1200 a month!

[@rossicastellanos1333]

What delivery apps ?

[@smaxrob]

Wow that's pretty cool!

[@charlottehyatt9601]

@@rossicastellanos1333DoorDash type jobs.

[@nawakaida7499]

Depends what kind of car you drive. I found about half my pay going towards gas at the end of each day. Plus my insurance went up because of the extra miles I was driving and my car maintenance budget tripled. When I sat down and wrote it all out, I was shocked to see how much I was REALLY bringing home. Wasn’t worth it at all. If they supplied the vehicle snd a gas card, it would be a great way to make money but if you’re paying for all that snd they only pay a flat rate for mileage regardless of what gas prices are, you almost just break even. It’s just not obvious to you until you write out the numbers and see it plain as day in front of you. Made me sick.

[@lisagardner9798]

@@nawakaida7499 my amounts I listed was after gas and insurance. Sorry it didn’t work out for you. I also held out tax money from each payday. It actually worked out but I’m very selective with the deliveries I take.

[@Lesh004]

Once you get used to a bare bones budget you realize how much you don’t need. My husband and I have not had internet or Netflix etc for 3 of our 4 years of marriage. We sold our large house, and got rid of the vehicle with a loan. We stopped eating out, and made huge lifestyle changes. All because we found out we were expecting. Now we live comfortably on a single income. And we were able to pay cash for vehicle repairs, and a new hvac system. We also have a house that’s smaller in size but more land and a huge detached garage. I look back to our first year of marriage when we both worked, and wonder why we’re we fine with living paycheck to paycheck. And only able to swing that by using credit cards and timing out payments. 🤦‍♀️ We sold so much stuff that people thought we were losing the house. 😂 We’ve also went 3-4 months with out furniture. It’s all about the end goal. And don’t beat yourself up when you mess up along the way. We all stumble. Just think about those “need” wants and what your goal is. When I was single I spend $3 5 days a week on a drink from McDonald’s, that’s $780 a year! And I had a friend who spend $5 a day on coffee 5 days a week, $1,300 a year. And we wondered why we were broke. I thought I was better because each time I got mine it was only a $1 right? But I didn’t consider adding it up.

[@shaniceleader2539]

I get what you’re saying, but how do you get used to not spending money on small things like drinks when you want to reward yourself? :) asking for actual advice bc I want to stop spending but sometimes it’s nice after a long day at work or something, but I can’t really afford it bc it does add up

[@Lesh004]

@@shaniceleader2539 you can try a technique I used when we first started. Any time we wanted something I would set aside the money for that item. I’d pretend that I actually bought that coke and snickers or that we had went ahead and ate out. At the end of a week we had more saved back than I expected. That’s how I knew we were too impulsive. Drinks and food literally just disappear. So try going a week or month. Then see how much you’ve saved yourself. And at the end of that time ask yourself, do you want to reward yourself with a treat, or are you happy you have that money saved? I also use the wait 24 hrs for a food or drink craving. If I’m still craving it then I ask myself “did I live without it? Yes.” So I try to go another 24 hrs. I will occasionally splurge if I’ve literally thought about nothing else. lol And as for more expensive purchase, like more than hourly pay, I ask myself is it worth working an hour or x amount of hours for it? And if I say yes then I wait 30 days. What I find is at the end of 30 days I’m usually like it can wait longer. I just keep a list going and I’d say after 6 months 99% gets removed.

[@meganlee7494]

Couldn’t agree more. There was alot of “non-necessities” on there - from the subscriptions to the eyelash extensions. When you’re trying to get of debt, you need to be proactive rather than sit back and wait. Such an educational video

[@behnnie]

I was shocked they were in this situation and yet eyelashes and candles made their budget.

[@lynnettemurphy8243]

@@behnnie You beat me to it. They've been struggling for ages so why would she still be getting eyelash extensions. Also what is the American obsession with eating out? Getting a puppy is something they couldn't afford either.

[@EXO-L45]

@@behnnie exactly, they can't pay their debt yet they have a puppy plan and she has eyelashes extensions?? It's ridiculous, honestly.

[@cathycoryell2351]

The gaming system subscription is not cheap either. Discipline and self awareness also need to be acknowledged!

[@neverstoplearning7214]

Yes

[@CatieCarrier]

Brought me to tears when you mentioned your kid and free lunches. Also a single mom of grownups now. I like your message.

[@michellemorales401]

SAME. I was in this very same position 4 years ago. My husband was in a car accident that had him on disability for almost 10 years! I worked fulltime and parttime and an occassional side job on top of that!! A bare bones budget helped us tremendously!!! We sold our home, got out of collections and my Husband's health improved to the point of being able to go back to work full-time. While IN the mix it's hard to imagine it as being temporary. It IS for a season in time and things DO get better. 💙💜💙

[@teresaclark215]

Renting a apartment is still cheaper and maintenance free, mobile homes are just as expensive with lot rent.

[@MsCuddlyOne]

Not always. Where I live rent is more than what they pay for mortgage/lot rent combined

[@yareliv11]

I think a good option could be renting the mobile home and move back to live with relatives it will be a type of side money income for temporary until the husband finds a full time job.

[@briannastultz6924]

Not sure about that. I live in Arizona, where affordable housing is non-existent. I’m paying 1327 for a one bedroom

[@jeh02571]

The key is to try and buy land you can put the mobile home on. My parents found land just a little out from a city for cheap and put a nice mobile home on it. Renting a lot is stressful and just as fluctuating as rent sadly :(

[@MC22Scott]

@@jeh02571 but you still have to have utilities set up/installed. The expense of permits and contractors would make that the worse option.

[@flamingo.and.co.26]

They could help their food budget by checking Aldi, Dollar Tree and going to a Food Pantry.

[@supernova622]

Places like Dollar Tree can be more expensive when you look at the unit price. Always good to do a proper cost comparison than just assume it's a better value

[@ericalafollette5475]

This was very nice to watch. My husband just lost his job, and I basically did this to our budget. He will be calling our Internet providers to try to negotiate a lower rate tomorrow, i paused my audible subscription, I’ll be driving his car until he gets a job because it is much better on the gas mileage, and all our meals will be made at home. We were already pretty frugal before, so I was worried we wouldn’t be able to change enough to get into the green, but after running the numbers I think we can :)

[@lisaneal4465]

This is the best one you have ever done. It's real life. There were times when I could not figure out how to make it work because there was not enough coming in. Your theory helped me to think better, which is what pulled me out of the hole. Thank you for taking a tough subject and shining light on what can be done.

[@katielitchman9482]

Agreed!

[@FannyGodMother]

Okay, I definitely didn’t think I’d become emotional during a budgeting video yet here I am!

[@leigh6780]

Same

[@rochelleph7945]

same

[@Shadowhuntedwizards]

My husband and I are going through this right now. My father in law passed away earlier this year and we lost an income with him. It’s been a real struggle to make ends meet and we are definitely in the red. We are doing the bare bones budget, cutting our unnecessary expenses and talking about selling one of our cars ( I work from home so we don’t really need two) talking about how we can lower other bills and work towards making an emergency fund and paying off debt. My husband has been interviewing for higher paying job and part time jobs, I am working as much over time as I can. I keep telling my husband this is temporary and eventually we will get back on our feet, but I’ve felt like such a failure for not saving up anything for when this day came. Thanks for saying there is no shame in this type of situation. This channel has helped me so much and this video in particular. Thank you so much for what you do ❤️❤️

[@main2333]

Reality was. Hand outs eventually ends. Always save for emergencies. Lesson learned. Live within your means

[@Chelle-kd1po]

Thank you! Watching in 2023. I believe this is one of the most realistic budget videos I've ever watched.

[@mgarteaga03]

That was me 3 years ago Jillian. Singe mom of three. Just want you to know you can do anything. I am going to move in to my brand new home I built own my own in 2 weeks. You just have to do the work. Be crazy creative with meals. And lots of patience. Stay off so I media. I did a dream board to help me visualize everyday and to remind me to keep the focus. Great video M!!! Can you do a how to live off one income video. I am recently engaged and want to do this to save.

[@ericaluna01]

Congratulations on your new home!

[@BudgetedForLater]

Staying off social media is such good advice. FOMO is such a hard thing and it’ll have you spending money that you don’t need to spend. Congrats on your new home!

[@alliejadeXO]

Miko is absolutely amazing. Her passion to actually help people is unmatched. I almost teared up watching today. Thank you so much Miko 💖💖

[@Raymondjohn2]

For salary earners having a passive source of income is the best thing you could have , because aside the the fact that it isn’t always enough you could lose your job any day at any time , have something to fall back to is crucial , for me it is trading the Forex and crypto market and no I didn’t have that much knowledge to begin to earn that’s why I said passive income, I leave the profit making to the pro like my Advisor 'Catherine Morrison Evans' , who has been doing a wonderful job

[@bob.weaver72]

Investors should be cautious about their exposure and be wary of new buys, especially during inflation. Such high yields in this recession is only possible under the supervision of a professional or trusted advisor

[@martingiavarini]

This is superb! Information, as a noob it gets quite difficult to handle all of this and staying informed is a major cause, how do you go about this are you a pro investor?

[@hermanramos7092]

Not at all, having monitored edge my portfolio performance which has made a jaw dropping $483k from just the past two quarters alone, I have learned why experienced traders make enormous returns from the seemingly unknown market. I must say it's the boldest decision I've taken since recently.

[@bob.weaver72]

I’ve actually been looking into advisors lately, the news I’ve been seeing in the market hasn’t been so encouraging. who’s the person guiding you?

[@hermanramos7092]

My financial advisor, ''Catherine Morrison Evans, is a highly qualified and experienced professional in the financial market. She possesses a broad understanding of portfolio diversification and is recognized as an expert in this field.

[@budgetwithjenny]

100% agree so many “non-necessities” on their budget!- Netflix, Hulu, Disney, Amazon are definitely not needed when you are in debt and in the red every month. Hopefully, the husband can find some part-time job and will hear back soon from the post office. Good luck to them!

[@dnikkithatsame5990]

True, get a $25 roku and you get a lot of free streaming with ads for entertainment along with KZbin

[@EWCIAGROBEL]

And the eyelash extensions and nails

[@budgetwithjenny]

@@EWCIAGROBEL Exactly!!!

[@Dbb27]

@@EWCIAGROBEL I about choked on that one.

[@neverstoplearning7214]

Yes !

[@jackiedehahn7085]

Thank you Jillian for sharing your budget. I so wish at this time I could share this with my sister however she is not ready to listen. Like Miko said it's only temporary, hang in there and we keep believing that God will create the work for your husband hand's on a daily basis. Thanks Miko

[@iriamonge1704]

if you have money issues you have to cut luxuries for a time ( netflix,hulu... ) these are not priority,

[@maydanava20]

In NJ, my husband gets 800-1000 a week with UberEats. It really helped when we were in a jam.

[@maggiemae4585]

I wonder if they could apply for energy assistance. When I was really in a bind but was unable to apply for other forms of assistance, energy assistance really came through for me! I’d encourage her to check out energy assistance in Michigan to see if they could help lower/forgive those payments

[@maryanne2025]

She can apply but she might make too much. But she should definitely check it out

[@cathycoryell2351]

Yes, in several areas, she might be able to qualify for heat assistance in the winter. Call every week, so they know you really need it. Can off set part of the current bills, bit every little bit helps, on the example given. Food pantry as well.

[@katie7748]

Some places have changed their threshold to qualify. People where I live no longer qualify even though nothing in their financial lives has changed. I've heard the same in other states.

[@martinjarvis8312]

One of the best ways I saved loads of money was to get a divorce now I have my own house and car payed for I don’t earn a lot of money about the average in the Uk and manage to save 77% of my net income last year.

[@bethanytea3434]

This was so tremendously informative! And you didn't humiliate them for the situation they are in. That is what kills me about other KZbin channels that assess other's financial situations. Subscriber gained ❤

[@budgetandplanforit8477]

This is not my financial situation, but I can tell you I’ve been close in life. I appreciate Miko just looking at this picture and offering suggestions. And kudos to Jillian for being brave enough to ask for help. Debt and money management is hard, especially if you’ve never been shown the way. Miko shows the way.

[@rebeccasimington1786]

I love watching these real-life budgets, this one hit close to home. my husband lost his job a few years back, and I was a stay-at-home mom. We were fortunate enough that they cashed out his stocks and 401K, with that we were able to pay off the home equity loan we had on our house at the time. For anyone going through this right now, it gets better I promise. Our daughter is no longer in daycare, and I'm back to being a stay-at-home mom, and we're making more than we did before!

[@cathycoryell2351]

Drawing down a 401k is not recommended for temporary unemployment. Borrow from Peter, to pay Paul. I hop this couple does not do that.

[@rebeccasimington1786]

@@cathycoryell2351 unfortunately we didn’t have a choice, the employer did it. We’re actually thankful that they did, because we couldn’t have paid on the house and paid for daycare too. It all worked out 🙌🙌

[@grownupgoth]

This video is representative of a large portion of the US. Thank you to both parties for sharing. 💚

[@alyakmiii]

When I was in a money crunch after moving, I found getting a temp agency job to be very helpful. Most of them I've had experience with started work within a few days and paid weekly.

[@sharasimmons]

Loved the “no shame” comment. We all have our struggles at one point or another and I bet it’s comforting to hear that their journey is nothing to be embarrassed about. Just a stepping stone to greater ❤️

[@comegetthiscommentary]

Michigander! I really enjoy when you do real life budgeting videos.

[@healthywealthyblessed]

There's no shame in the struggle you got to work through it eat rice and beans sometimes just beans sometimes just potatoes get 2 to 3 jobs get minimal sleep never giving up

[@candy2325]

Miko you are doing the lord’s work! I’ve been following you forever and I changed my relationship with money drastically. I’ve been helping my mom financially so I have some more responsibility, so I’ve been tightening up my budget by meal planning, cutting back on getting my nails done, cutting out gym memberships. I’ve been working overtime at my job to earn extra and it definitely helps!

[@ceceliawilliams4323]

As a newly single mom of two small kids I am currently going threw my bare bones budget, but honestly I enjoy finally being able to take control of my money ! I just want to say thank you for saying that it's ok to be in this space and it's only temporary. Those are the exact words I needed to hear. I really appreciate your humbleness in telling your own story.

[@dawnmariebooher3269]

In 2011, I left an abusive relationship and went to a Domestic Violence shelter with my 5 children. I was working 34h/wk and in school full time and a p/t unpaid internship. Because of the shelter status, my oldest daughter who was then a senior and 17y qualified for the McKinney Act (it's national in the US)... this afforded her a gas card or bus fare, free school lunch plus she could go to Communities in Schools for snacks, extra clothing/coats, backpacks, and to volunteer herself. McKinney and free lunches both qualify your junior or senior 3 attempts at their SATs for free. School counselor or social workers can also usually help with shoe gift cards, cap and gown, and borrowing a laptop, and free textbooks/tuition. My daughter also took advantage of free AP courses at her high school and graduated mid semester with her first year of college General education classes completed. Meanwhile, the shelter advocates encouraged me to apply to graduate school rather than wait the year I was going to till I was "in a better place." A DV advocate reminded me how much this abusive man had already taken from me and to not allow him to take that dream too. The shelter helped us with a fresh start... literally everything we needed to start over even got me qualified for a graduated rent program at an apartment complex that gave me 2.5y before I was expected to pay full rent. They gave me and my children gift certificates for free haircuts and outreach every week for a group dinner and therapy... women's support group and play therapy for the kids. I made some of my very best friends in that support group. And today, I'm a LCSW with children with special needs. It's hard to believe how much my life has changed these past 11y. I hope someone reads this who needs to hear it... God will make a way when there seems to be no way. He put so many people and resources in my path once I opened up to allowing others to help us out of that potentially fatal situation. As for my abuser... he went to jail for a year for trying to murder his then girlfriend in 2019. Again, I hope my testimony helps someone who is in this situation and needs to leave or is thinking about going back to an abusive relationship due to financial hardship. I learned from another DV Advocate, "a man is not a financial plan" and "your peace, your children's peace... is priceless!"

[@dawnmariebooher3269]

McKinney Act also pays for your child's first year of college at an in state college. So my daughter got 2y of college free in total with her AP courses and that additional year.

[@redbarnhomestead7384]

Wow, I actually think this is one of the BEST budget videos I have EVER seen on KZbin!

[@judyklette6646]

I'm 52 years old and you wouldn't believe how many times I've had to start completely over without absolutely nothing. I'm doing extremely well now thanks to TBM and GOD. My mother and father always said to make sure that your rent & bills are paid. You can get food from anywhere. Stay humble people and thank God for all your blessings because you never know when something will you cause you to fall HARD

[@jenniepost2117]

Many of us are in this position right now. Timely and important to share! Thank you Miko!! And thank you Jillian for putting it out there too. I really appreciated this video! Well done!!!

[@rreynolds4315]

I loved this video. It's the realest budget video I've ever seen. Every other budget video is people making $6000 a month and they can't figure it out. Sometimes people are low income. There needs to be a series on low income budgeting.

[@katrinab8805]

Oh Miko 💜 That emotion when talking about the tiny ones lunch. You’re incredible, mama

[@Joy-xz2fx]

This is so good! Love this. New to your channel. Men are really letting shit hit the fan in my circle lately. I’m the primary bread winner in my home and I’m tired of it. The man in my life would rather get high and do god only knows what all day... he’s gone all day but doesn’t earn. He got 16k unemployed in one chunk over the summer, it was all gone in a month. He is ridiculous. He bought 2 used cars that are gas hogs and he uses my gas card weekly to put gas in his car. I’m at the point where I want out of this toxic relationship so damn bad. I have rent paid up for the next 2 months and can’t afford a car but my boyfriend has 4 vehicles and he keeps me without a car. I need to start taking the bus and get out more until I can afford it. We have lots of expenses that are frivolous. I’m in a really toxic situation that I cannot wait to get myself out of.

[@TMKJG24]

That Comcast bill can be cut by $100 if they get a streaming Box which is free And they can just carry the Wi-Fi it will be $65 a month including Automatic bill payment option That's what I did and my bill was over $200 but my father was paying that before he passed away

[@dianedemasi]

Great tips! Side note on hiring bonuses. Sometimes there are requirements to receiving those bonuses. They aren't always paid out immediately upon hire. We had a local fast food restaurant so desperate for help they offered a $1000 hiring bonus. However, the person had to commit to stay with the business from September 2021 to February 2022. So don't expect to get hired and walk out with the bonus.

[@rosedevereux2391]

True. Most of these bonuses are spread out anywhere from 90 days to even longer. I have seen 30/60/180 arrangements-first amount on day 30, second amount on day 60, last amount at 6-month mark. I will not go for those gimmicks. Just increase the gotderned salary!!

[@singlemomlife2261]

Yup

[@Reina623]

Miko, thank you for showing this. Most creators I've watched will tell you to just go increase your income. I've been there and I learn best by examples. It does take tough love with emphasis on survival mode and no shame.

[@rrdcreates]

Good advice overall - I would have just stripped the Comcast to internet only and kept streaming services in rotation having different ones quarterly - would have been a larger amount of savings that way. Especially with the bundles that Disney + offers with Hulu. Just thought for anyone who is also balancing cable and streaming.

[@candy2325]

I’m seriously considering of doing this because I pay that amount for Comcast and I barely even watch tv anyway except a show on a streaming service here and there.

[@manunjoh6561]

Since 2017 I advised my mum to cut cable and I’ve never had cable just bought a fire stick or Apple TV and stream with internet.

[@BudgetedForLater]

I literally just commented this! Such good advice. Spotify also offers a bundle with Hulu. So many options that easily saves $80+.

[@BudgetedForLater]

@@candy2325 try it. Give yourself 30 days to do the internet + streaming only and then go from there. This is how I got my sister in law to completely switch from cable. She hasn’t used cable in 3/4 years.

[@luv2cook5]

I only have internet Hulu Netflix and other stuff it's enough for me and my kids..I haven't had cable in years..you don't need cable anymore when you can pretty much see everything on KZbin now.

[@williamwarren9448]

My inlaws got into a mobile home (12% interest) and then the lot rent - it got them so far behind financially they had to walk away. They NEVER should have been approved for that mobile home payment - its prediatory - and a real scary scam. I am sorry that they are paying SOOOO much money just to live where they live. Tough love works - prayers work.

[@MC22Scott]

Yes, they should get an apartment or rental home as soon as possible & sell the home off.

[@nmbyerly]

The tough love approach needs to be heard by so many that have the frivolous expenditures and have the priorities upside down. Thank you for the blunt honesty.

[@pasoapaso6323]

All of us budgeters are in some way either getting through this stage of emergency in our lives or preparing to survive in case it comes. It's a little nerve-wracking but at the same time it eases the anxiety a little bit to know we're doing SOMETHING about it. Looking at our numbers can be scary but it's definitely a move in the right direction.

[@MommieOfthree]

I absolutely love this kind of video!! More please!! We were all here at this point, some still are. Once you get out of it , being there gives you motivation to never go back.

[@virginiaflores2940]

Emergency broadband benefit is giving $50 monthly for internet assistance if the children school gives them free lunch they can qualify for help...or other categories may apply...every little bit helps

[@lunayen]

They don't have kids..

[@katelynnboyd9141]

Not everywhere is hiring right now. A lot of those postings are not actually open to fill. Solid advice, of course, but just letting you and everyone else know just because there are listings does NOT mean there is any open positions.

[@natashat.3207]

They will really need to just sell the car off and pay the debt. It will seem like a sacrifice now but be a relief in the upcoming months until they get back on their feet. Praying for them, and hope it all works out well for them!

[@lilimarie326]

Prayers for Jillian and her husband. You're amazing Miko.

[@rudy6433]

My wife sent me this video and this is a very helpful video. The only thing I would take precaution of, doing Uber Eats. The issue with Uber Eats is it is very tip based. I did Uber Eats to make ends meet when my job let me go at the start of the pandemic. While it helped me get by for a while, while I searched for something more permanent, the amount of wear and tear my car went through added up after time and really made things worse in the long run. On an 8 hour day where I live, I can make any where from $80-$100 or at worse, $34-$45 even if i do the same amount of orders as I did when I averaged $80-$100. I did have a few days where I'd get close to $150, but again, it was mostly from tips, not so much from getting the order. With gas the way it is right now, even if you make $80-$100 that day, the amount of gas used after a day or two, almost half of what you make goes towards gas. So if you make the minimal, you essentially drove around to put gas that you just wasted. That's from my experiences though in my area. I'm sure others know better tricks and what not to make the most out of an Uber Eats option, but I wouldn't do it again. That's just me though. Awesome video though. Really put a lot of perspective for me.

[@mmkait]

Just found you and idk where you've been all my life! Your free printable resources are everything I need. I appreciate you doing an in depth breakdown and providing great resources at no cost! My fiance just lost his job and I need to reevaluate our expenses. I just printed the Real Life Budget worksheets and I'm getting started right now. Thank you!!

[@amyjones8613]

This was what I needed to here today. Instead of sitting around feeling shameful, I should think of ways to help myself. Sometimes the downward spiral of depression and frustration gets the best of me.

[@BudgetedForLater]

Jillian, I feel for you. That ACL surgery for your dog hit me hard as well because my dog had to get the same thing recently and it’s extremely expensive. Another cost cut down suggestion, get rid of your cable ($165). Get internet (can usually find that for $50/$60) and keep the Netflix and Hulu. That’s around $70-$80, saving you $95-$85. I convinced my SIL to do this 3/4 years ago. It took her awhile to get on board. But now she loves it. That cable bill was always such a source of stress.

[@janeybache3050]

I loved the no judgment tone to your advice Miko. Some comments are very critical but what seems obvious is sometimes to hard to see when you’re stuck in the middle of it all. You help us lift our heads for a moment; thank you. And the sparkly nails are fab!

[@charmerchan]

This hit so hard especially as I lost my 2nd job and right now super close or maybe I’m already in red. Seeing you break it down makes it less intimidating for me as I’m so scared to face the fact that I’m once again in debt thinking i had my shit together. Thank you for everything you’re doing to help people become wiser financially. Love frm the PH 🇵🇭

[@rosac464]

No shaming but this is lesson number #1, if you don’t have the money, you don’t buy it.my husband is a realtor and he tells his clients if you can’t afford the down payment, you can’t afford to buy a house.

[@Nova73113]

Best video yet! A real depiction for people who are actively seeking out how to fix their budget from the start. I imagine these are her main viewers. I've been doing it awhile, but I'd really like to see some videos of Miko working through the process of budgeting, not with it already done. Seeing the process could really help a lot of people. I've mostly figured it out, but it took quite a bit of time and commitment to do it.

[@sarahs.9292]

What a brave thing to share. I wish there were more of these examples. Yes, it's scary, but you will get through it. I like seeing those who can save so much, but more needs to be shown on how families are struggling or paying off debt. Making 2000-4000k a month.

[@jessdescriptive524]

It was nice to see and hear your encouraging words for this family. It is hard to turn things around, but not impossible. Thank you for sharing.

[@susanc4116]

I lived on a bare bones budget for 10 years (I had cancer). I'm out of debt now, alive, but still live the same way - so afraid that it will happen again and the anxiety isn't worth it.

[@budgetwithshelly]

Thank you for the budgeting tips! I truly appreciate your transparency with the struggles of budgeting 😩 I appreciate you 🤗✉️🥰🤗

[@hanab837]

Miko, you are a treasure!! Thank you for addressing real life issues in a honest and straightforward way.

[@ericasmith6606]

You handled this situation and budget so well. Thank you for advocating for Jillian and for those who may be listening that are in the same situation. Thank you for putting your foot down and deciding to vocalize how you truly felt during this budget and saying, hey...its ok because it will/can get better!

[@UpDownMichelle]

I hope her husband hears back from the USPS soon! My husband recently started as a letter carrier and it *did* take a while for all of the wheels to start moving, but since he's started it's really turned our financial situation around. Also, the long term benefits of the post office are pretty awesome if he can stick with it.

[@NamirRivera]

But the schedule is terrible!! def good money

[@shaniceleader2539]

Yeah but two months is a long time, he could pick up an entry level job until he gets the usps job instead of doing nothing.

[@zahrakanji6603]

i would also apply for food stamp and assistance for utilities. unemployment benefits. They are in a very tough spot but not impossible. BEST OF LUCK TO THEM.

[@harmonicaveronica]

My sister works for the post office and they're slow as heck about hiring and promotion. If he's not hired on by now and being trained, he might not see that job until january because as much as they need help before the holdiays, it's really tough part of the year to find the time to train new people. He definitely needs to find a different job, even if it's a temp one that's holiday only! Also, if they are that much in the hole, they should absolutely be looking into food assistance - whether that's EBT if they meet the qualifications or food pantries (some have income requirements and others don't). And other assistance programs that can help with mortgage or utilities, if they qualify. If they are part of a church, they should turn to that church for whatever help may be available, and even if not they may be able to find a church in their community who can point them to resources. When you're broke and maybe embarrassed about it, it can be easy to forget that you are a part of a community, and that community has resources to help!

[@skulkatx5241]

Miko you have such a positive and motivating attitude, it’s really nice and very helpful that you take time to not only help people fix their budgets but take the time to make these videos so that you can help others in similar situations

[@raquella194]

This is the most realistic budgeting video I've watched. You should definitely do more of these!!

[@1977NOBODY]

Cut the comcast and choose one streaming service…..I did this and chose just Netflix for two years,And it saved me about 300 bucks a month.

[@CRISTINA-ge4ob]

This tough love was for everyone ..I know I needed to hear this ..revising my own expenses after this video ☺️ ..I think we need more videos like this that show real situations. I love how thorough she is and how she explains everything

[@bvvv.v.gdfffc2403]

Real talk...touched my heart. My family is in a bad place not a worse where we can't put food on the table but we lost our home. My father with no inheritance, no help and not even a proper education built it with his 40 years of career. So, we ended up choosing my father's wellbeing over the luxury and privileged to live in owned home. Just like you said in the video...no shame. I'm actually proud that we didn't let ego get in the way of living a debt free life. My goal in life is to live like this...without shame and a big fat ambition with buy back our home cause I know I can. I just need time. Thank you. For some reason I really needed to see this video. :) love you.

[@courtneydavis2659]

Wow! You have my husband and I inspired to do this! We live on one income bc im a sahm to my two special needs kiddos. I would love to see more of these types of budgets! I think ppl will/would get REAL inspiration from this! You btw rock! Very very happy to hear your story! Very "real" and straight up what everyone needs to do!

[@countrystyle5076]

There's a lot of how to lower food budget videos out there but what has helped me the most is menu planning. I have just found the app Whisk and it's been a game changer. You have to go through a lot of steps but it does a shopping list for you also. You can customize the list to what you don't need or other items you need to buy like toilet tissue or trash bags. Love this app.

[@SIP612]

Groceries: store brand and sales only. Shop your pantry 1st and meal plan. You got this momma.

[@DearDebt]

Great video Miko. I love these type of videos. It’s nice to see the differences in budgets!

[@jessicadapcich7926]

I’m a young mom and me and the baby’s father are still trying figure out money. I have a part time job and he has a full time job. I have trouble with over spending, and most of his money goes to help his mom with bills since we live with his parents. I have a really hard time with budgeting but this video really helped me.

[@212puppy212]

I just found you and subscribed. I have never see a video of someone actually talking about another person’s budget the way that you did. Very refreshing. 😊

[@VibeWithNique]

I absolutely love all of your videos! Your methods have changed my life! Forever grateful for you!

[@Emguerrero]

Miko! You are inspiring. For us who are trying to get a hold of expenses even when we are blessed with a steady income, no debt, etc. I am learning so much and I am so grateful for your work in teaching us how to navigate financial challenges to attain financial security. Thank you! 💖💖💖💖

[@cinzialbm]

True, husband can find a job in no time nowadays because of the high demand Also, no need to go grocery shopping, go to any church that gives food away, churches can give you 1 or 2 weeks of supplies. Lastly do sell all extra items laying down around the house

[@victoriaalvarez4293]

I love that you talked about this in a way that gives hope in a very hard financial time. I've been in this place. I learned about bare bone budgeting from you. It was tough but there is also a sense of security about it. Budgeting in this way when the pandemic hit gave me that feeling of security that I desperately needed. Thank you so much for ALL you do!