Set up values-based (anti-budget) budgeting

Set up values-based budgeting

Values-based budgeting (sometimes called the "anti-budget") means you decide how much goes to the things that matter most—like savings and giving—and you spend the rest without guilt. You don't have to track every category in detail.

Steps

• Create a new budget. Go to Budgets → New budget → "Split my income."
• Enter your amount and accounts. Enter your income for the period. Select the accounts this budget uses.
• Create a rule with a few percentages. When asked how to split your money, choose "Create new rule." Add one or two items for what matters most—e.g. 25% to Savings, 10% to Giving (or a category you use for donations). Add one item with Remainder for "Everything else" or "Spending." That remainder is what you spend without tracking every line.
• Apply to budget. Click "Apply to budget." You'll see your savings and giving amounts and one bucket for the rest. Save.
• Optional. If you want, you can leave "Everything else" as a single line and not break it down. Or add a few broad categories later. The idea is: priorities first, then freedom to spend.

You're all set. Your values get their share first; the rest is yours to spend. Check in occasionally to see that savings and giving are on track.

See also How to choose and set up your budgeting method, Set up pay-yourself-first budgeting, and Income allocation rules.

Related articles

• How to choose and set up your budgeting methodChoose the budgeting style that fits you—from simple splits to category-by-category planning—and set it up in a few steps.
• Set up pay-yourself-first budgetingSave a set amount or percentage first; spend the rest on bills and life.
• Income Allocation RulesSet up rules to allocate income to categories, accounts, or goals automatically.