It’s officially fall in Western Pennsylvania! The air conditioning has been off for over a week, pumpkin is in full swing and I’ve broken out the boots and sweaters. Ahhhhhhhhhhh.

Monday starts another new month and I hope your September was successful! Take a few moments this weekend to reflect on the last 30 days. What did you do well financially speaking? Where did you leave room for improvement? What simple changes were you able to implement that made an impact? Then use your takeaways to spend some time planning October’s budget.

DON’T FORGET THESE 10 ITEMS FOR YOUR OCTOBER BUDGET

1) Travel. You might have fall break or Columbus Day off, but regardless, extra time off often means extra money spent.

2) Halloween decorations, costumes and candy. Don’t be stingy!

3) Oktoberfest. Now THIS is what October is all about! It seems like everyone’s getting in on the fun these days with Oktoberfest and you can too…just make sure you plan a little extra in the entertainment, dining out or however you might categorize it!

4) Football. It doesn’t matter what level you’re watching or where, sporting events have a way of getting the best of our pockets when we’re not prepared.

5) Fundraisers are in full swing and if you can find it in your budget, it’s great to support your local kids and schools.

6) Winter tires. Depending on where you live and what you drive, you might need winter tires on your car. Maybe not for October, but it might take a couple months to save up.

7) Fall and winter clothing. Don’t be shocked when little Johnny puts his pants on and looks like he’s in a flood. Kids grow quick and you need to be prepared for some new fall and winter clothing. Consignment sales are a great way to take out the old and bring in the new!

8) School pictures. I don’t know about your Facebook feed, but mine’s been flooded recently with those silly and sweet smiles. Don’t forget to put some money in the budget to get a few sheets to share with your family and friends.

9) Increased utility bills. The air might be off, but that means the heat will go on soon! Consider putting your utilities on budget billing to eliminate the element of surprise.

10) Christmas. I said it in September and I’ll say it again in November. Plan ahead, not behind! What if you save up from October to December this year to pay for Christmas as you go, instead of paying for it January to March? Imagine the peace you’ll feel come January and the joy you’ll get in the giving 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 discovery call to see how I can help!