April is not just the start of the Spring season for most of us, but it’s also Financial Literacy Month! Let’s start the month out strong! Don’t let the change in weather change your intensity with your budget. It’s easy to loosen up and get caught off guard when more spontaneous events start happening.

Create your April spending plan now and be prepared by checking out the 9 categories listed below that can easily get overlooked. And don’t forget, budgeting is a team sport if you’re married! Sit down after the kids are in bed with your favorite beverage in hand and make it a plan you both agree on.

• Easter - Whether you’re planning on hosting or planning on traveling to family or friends for Easter, there will be a few extra expenses to consider. Looking to keep kids baskets simple? Shop at the dollar store or 5 Below for a few fun treats!

• Tax Day - April 15th is THE DAY. If you haven’t gotten your taxes done, now’s the time to do them and to ensure you financially prepare to have them done. And if you’re one of the not so lucky ones who owes taxes, make sure you’ve got the money in your budget to pay by the 15th.

• Real estate Taxes - If your home isn’t escrowed, keep in mind that depending on where you live, you may have real estate taxes due or coming due soon. Carve some money out in your budget this month to be prepared.

• Wedding Season - So it’s not exactly wedding season yet, but it’s coming on like a train. You might find yourself invited to some bridal showers starting this month to get ready for the couple’s big day.

• Home Improvements - With the change of seasons, it’s common to want to spruce up your curb appeal. Budget some money for the projects you have in mind. If they’re bigger, start a sinking fund for them and start funding while you’re freshly excited!

• Lawn Maintenance - Whether you take care of your own lawn or hire someone to do it, there will be costs associated in your budget. Your gasoline will go up if you go it alone and possibly some mower repairs to be had. If you hire a company, be ready for that first bill to come in.

• Garage Sales - ‘Tis the season! With the warmer weather you’ll soon start to see garage sales and estate sales popping up all over your street. Add a category in your budget if you have some things in mind, or better yet, add some income to your budget by joining in the fun!

• Family Entertainment - It’s time for cabin fever to end and you’ll soon want to be out and about doing more as a family on the warmer weekend days. Budget in a little more family entertainment for zoo days, ice cream stops and little fun to be had along the way. Of course there are a lot of great free options as well, but don’t let this category catch you off guard.

• Summer Vacation - If you’re planning on traveling this summer take the stress out of the vacation and start saving now if you haven’t already. There’s NO better feeling than being on vacation knowing it’s all paid for!

By creating a spending plan before the month begins, you’ll feel more in control of your money and you’ll have more left over at the end of the month! If you’re still not sure how to get started, click here to set up your FREE introductory coaching session to see how I can help!