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Bill-Gap Calculator FAQ

This FAQ explains what each input means and how to interpret your result.
Want to calculate now? Go to Bill-Gap Calculator.

Q1: What does the Bill-Gap Calculator tell me?

It tells you whether you’re likely to make it to your next paycheck and how tight the gap is, using your cash, expected income, bills, necessary spending, and days until payday

Q2: What should I enter for “Cash on hand today”?

Enter the money you can actually use today (accounts + wallet). Don’t include money you can’t spend.

Q3: What does “Net income before next paycheck” mean?

It’s the net money you expect to receive before payday (after tax/deductions). If you won’t receive any, enter zero.

Q4: What counts as “Must-pay bills before next paycheck”?

Bills due before payday that you must pay: rent, utilities, phone, minimum debt payments, subscriptions due in this period.

Q5: What is “Other necessary spending”?

Basic costs you must cover in this period: groceries, transportation, essential day-to-day spending. Not extras.

Q6: Why does the tool ask for “Days until next paycheck”?

Because “tightness” depends on time. A small leftover can be fine over 5 days but risky over 20 days.

Q7: What does a negative result mean?

It means you’re projected to run short before payday unless something changes (cut spending, delay a bill, add income, adjust timing).

Q8: What if my result is positive but still feels stressful?

Check the average leftover per day. You can be positive overall but still have a very low daily margin.

Q9: Does this include “extra spending” like eating out?

No. Put only necessary spending. Extras are exactly what usually causes the shortfall.

Q10: Is this financial advice?

No. It’s a planning aid. You decide what actions to take.

Go back to the calculator: Bill-Gap Calculator

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