70/15/10/5 Budget Spreadsheet Template | Excel and Google Sheets

The 70/15/10/5 Essential Living Budget – A Simple, Balanced Approach to Managing Your Money

The 70/15/10/5 Essential Living Budget is a smart financial system designed to help you stay focused on covering life’s essentials while still making room for saving and managing debt. It’s a great choice for individuals and families who want stability, control, and long-term growth — without letting discretionary spending take over.

How It Works

This budgeting method breaks down your income into four key categories to help you stay organized and financially grounded:

• 70% – Needs

The majority of your income goes to essential living expenses like housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. This ensures your core needs are always met and your foundation remains secure.

• 15% – Wants

This portion covers lifestyle spending — things that bring joy but aren’t strictly necessary, like eating out, entertainment, and hobbies. It keeps life enjoyable while staying within financial limits.

• 10% – Savings

A consistent savings habit is key to financial growth. Whether you're building an emergency fund, investing, or saving for retirement, this 10% helps you grow your financial future without feeling deprived.

• 5% – Debt

This slice of your budget goes toward paying down credit cards, loans, or other obligations. It helps you reduce debt over time in a steady, manageable way.

Why This Budget Works So Well

• Stability First – You prioritize what truly matters and ensure your basic needs are always covered.
• Responsible Debt Payments – You reduce debt consistently without overwhelming your budget.
• Steady Financial Growth – Saving regularly, even in small amounts, adds up over time.
• Built-In Balance – You can still enjoy life while staying focused on your bigger financial goals.

Who Can Benefit from the 70/15/10/5 Budget?

• People going through life changes — like a new job, single-income households, or students
• Families managing limited income — who want to cover essentials and still plan for the future
• Anyone balancing debt repayment with the desire to save and live comfortably

Why Choose This Method?

• Realistic and Practical – A grounded approach to money that works with real life
• Simple Structure – Easy to follow and maintain, with clear categories
• Supports Long-Term Health – Encourages consistent progress without overwhelm
• Flexible for Any Lifestyle – Easily customizable to fit your unique financial situation

Ready to Get Started?

The 70/15/10/5 Budget comes in a user-friendly template for Google Sheets and Excel, making it easy to track your income, expenses, and goals. Whether you’re budgeting solo or for your household, it’s the perfect tool to help you stay focused, grow financially, and take control of your money — one smart step at a time.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• Step-by-step instructions 
• 4 Templates of Spreadsheets
• Sample Google Sheet with Mock Data
• Blank Google Sheet
• Sample Excel with Mock Data
• Blank Excel
• Editable in Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel
• Compatible with MAC, PC, Phones, or Tablets

HOW IT WORKS & REQUIREMENTS

YOU WILL NEED:

• A device to access Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel
• A Google Account (if using Google Sheets)
• Microsoft Excel software (if using Excel)
• Basic computer skills

HOW IT WORKS:

• Purchase and download instantly.
• Open the PDF file to access the Google Sheet link.
• Download the Excel template.
• Open the spreadsheet and start planning!

IMPORTANT TO KNOW:

• This is a digital download; no physical items will be shipped.
• Due to the nature of digital products, all sales are final, and refunds are not available.

COLOR DISCLAIMER:

Please note that colors in the spreadsheet may vary slightly due to screen display differences on your device. This can include variations in color on phones, tablets, and computers.

Note: For the best experience, we recommend using a desktop or laptop for full editing capabilities.