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Safe-to-Spend Today FAQ

This FAQ explains what each input means and how to interpret the result.
Want to calculate now? Go to Safe-to-Spend Today.

Q1: What does “Safe-to-Spend Today” mean?

It’s a daily spending amount based on your plan for the rest of the month. It’s designed to help you spend today without breaking your month-end plan.

Q2: Why does the number change from one day to another?

Because the tool spreads your remaining discretionary room across the days left in the month. Also, your real plan changes when new expenses appear.

Q3: What should I enter for “Cash on hand now”?

Enter the total money you can actually use today (accounts + wallet). Don’t include money that is not available to spend.

Q4: What does “Expected income remaining” mean?

The net income you still expect to receive before month-end. Use net, not gross.

Q5: What counts as “Must-pay bills”?

Anything due before month-end that must be paid: rent, utilities, phone, minimum debt payments, subscriptions due this month.

Q6: What should I put in “Savings / planned transfers”?

Money you plan to move out of spending: savings deposits, extra debt payments, transfers to other accounts.

Q7: What are “Irregular expenses”?

Known one-off costs this month (repairs, gifts, appointments, events, annual fees that hit this month). If you know it’s coming, it belongs here.

Q8: Do I have to use the safety buffer?

No. It’s optional. If surprises happen often, a buffer makes the result more realistic.

Q9: What if the result is $0?

It means your plan currently has no safe discretionary room today. It’s a planning warning, not judgment. Update inputs or adjust spending/bills.

Q10: Is this financial advice?

No. It’s a planning tool. You decide what to do based on your full situation.

Go back to the calculator: Safe-to-Spend Today

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