What is the 50/30/20 budget rule?

The 50/30/20 rule splits your take-home pay into 50% needs (housing, food, transport), 30% wants (entertainment, eating out), and 20% savings and debt repayment.

How do I make a budget in South Africa?

Start with your take-home pay, list all your expenses by category, compare to the 50/30/20 guideline, and adjust until you are saving at least 20% and not overspending.

Home/Money Tools/Budget Planner

Money Tools

Budget Planner

Plan where every rand goes each month with the 50/30/20 rule

Budget

Plan your budget

The 50/30/20 rule, tailored to your pay

Monthly Take-Home Pay

Your actual spending (optional)

Needs (rent, food, transport)

Wants (fun, subscriptions)

Savings & Debt

Recommended monthly savings

20% of take-home

—Your budget

The 50/30/20 target

50% NeedsR0

30% WantsR0

20% Savings & debtR0

✓ Target monthly savingsR0

ℹThe 50/30/20 rule is a guideline, not a law. If your needs exceed 50% (common with high rent), trim wants first to protect your savings.

Budget Planner

Plan your budget

Debt Repayment Calculator

Emergency Fund Calculator

Savings Goal

The 50/30/20 Budget Rule for South Africans

How to Budget on a Low Income

How to Make a Budget (Step by Step)