Extension Offers Tool For Non-Monthly Expenses
While some people find monthly bills easier to plan for and expect, non-monthly bills can be harder to keep track of. If not planned for properly, a bill that’s due every six months, such as auto insurance, may end up on a credit card or other form of payment.
To ease the burden for individuals who struggle with non-monthly bills, Montana State University Extension has a free financial planning MontGuide available to help with calculations.
“‘The Schedule of Non-monthly Family Living Expenses’ MontGuide will give you a clear picture of how your non-monthly payments are distributed throughout a 12-month period,” said Marsha Goetting, MSU Extension family economics specialist. “At a glance, you can see what bills are due in what months and plan ahead for them.”
The form will help individuals calculate how much to set aside each month so they can avoid the stress that arises when several major bills come due during the same month, Goetting said. The MontGuide contains a sample form and directions for filling it out. A blank form is also provided.
“The Schedule of Non-monthly Expenses” MontGuide can be found at https://store.msuextension. org/publications/FamilyFinancialManagement/ MT198910HR.pdf. Users can go to the same site and click on the worksheet to calculate their monthly and yearly averages. Paper copies are also available at local Extension and reservation offices.
