About the budget spreadsheet template
What is a budget spreadsheet template?
A budget spreadsheet template is a ready-made file with the rows, columns and formulas you need to run a budget, so you only have to type in numbers. You get totals and differences calculated for you, the flexibility of a spreadsheet and none of the set-up work. It is a good fit if you like to see all your numbers in a grid, want to sort and filter, or share the file with a partner.
This free generator creates a budget CSV you can open in Excel, Google Sheets, Numbers or LibreOffice. Choose a layout, edit the income and expense rows to match your life, and download. The formulas for totals and differences are already in the file. There is nothing to install and no account is required.
Two layouts to choose from
- One month: columns for budget, actual and difference. It is best for managing a single month in detail and comparing plan with reality.
- A whole year: a column for each month with totals. It is best for seeing seasonal patterns, planning annual costs and checking how the year is going.
How to use the template
- Choose the layout and edit the income and expense rows. Rename categories and add or remove rows so the file matches your life.
- Download the CSV.
- Open it in your spreadsheet app. Excel, Google Sheets, Numbers and LibreOffice all open CSV files. In Google Sheets, use File, Import, then upload.
- Type in your numbers. Totals and differences update automatically.
- Save the file as a native spreadsheet (.xlsx, Google Sheet or Numbers file) so it keeps its formatting for next month.
A note about CSV and formulas
A CSV is a plain-text format, so it stores values and formulas but not colours, fonts or column widths. Your spreadsheet app may show a warning about formulas when you open the file. That is normal, because spreadsheet apps are cautious with any CSV containing formulas, and the formulas in this file were written by this tool. After opening, you can add formatting, conditional colours or charts and save in the spreadsheet’s own format.
Customising your budget spreadsheet
Once the file is open, you can extend it in ways a basic template cannot. Add a column for notes. Apply conditional formatting to turn overspent lines red. Insert a chart that shows spending by category. Add a tab for each year. Because the formulas are standard, they carry over when you copy rows or add new categories. If you add rows within the existing range, check that the total formulas still cover the new lines.
Spreadsheet or online planner?
Spreadsheets are powerful and flexible, but they take discipline. If you would rather enter figures in a form and see the results straight away, use the budget calculator for a quick snapshot, the free budget planner for planned and actual figures or the monthly budget planner for a needs, wants and savings approach. Each also offers a CSV download if you later want the data in a spreadsheet.
Tips for budgeting in a spreadsheet
- Keep one row per category and resist adding too many. Twenty lines you maintain beat sixty you abandon.
- Make a copy of the file each month or use a new column, so you build a history.
- Back it up. A budget you have kept for a year is valuable.
- Protect the file with a password if it contains sensitive information and you share a device.
Useful spreadsheet features to try
- Freeze the header row so the month names stay in view as you scroll.
- Use conditional formatting to colour negative differences red and positive ones green.
- Add a simple chart of spending by category to see where the money goes.
- Use a second sheet for sinking funds such as car repairs, gifts or annual insurance.
Choosing between one month and a year
If you are new to budgeting, start with the single-month layout. The budget, actual and difference columns teach the basic habit of planning, recording and comparing. Once you have three or four months of reliable numbers, switch to the annual layout and use it to spot patterns: higher winter heating, summer holidays, December gifts or a September school bill. Seeing a full year on one sheet also helps you set aside money in quieter months for the expensive ones.
Privacy
The CSV is generated in your browser. Your layout choices and row names are not uploaded to Just Plann. What you do with the file afterwards, such as storing it in a cloud drive, is up to you.
Budget spreadsheet template FAQ
Is it free? Yes, with no sign-up.
Does it work in Google Sheets? Yes. Upload the CSV through File, Import, and choose to replace or insert.
Can I use the annual layout to plan a year? Yes. Each month has its own column, and totals are calculated for the year.
Is this financial advice? No. It is a template for general information.
Download your template
Choose a layout, edit the rows and download. Your first budget spreadsheet is a couple of minutes away.