Free Zero-Based Budget Template Spreadsheet
Give every dollar a job until income minus assignments equals zero.
What this is
Zero-based budgeting means every unit of income is assigned a job until nothing is left unassigned. This sheet helps you map income sources to categories so “mystery money” disappears.
Best for
- People who overspend because cash feels leftover
- Variable income freelancers planning a month in advance
- Anyone learning YNAB-style assignment without the app
What’s included
- Income source and amount fields
- Assignment columns for category and amount
- A Left to assign reminder column
Preview
| Income source | Amount | Assigned to | Assigned amount | Left to assign |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paycheck | 3200 | Housing | 1200 | |
| Food | 350 | |||
| Transport | 150 | |||
| Debt | 400 | |||
| Fun | 100 |
How to use
- Enter all income for the month in the first columns.
- Assign every dollar to a category until nothing is left.
- If Left to assign is not zero, move money between categories.
Tips
- Start from income, not expenses — assign until the remainder is zero.
- Create a Buffer category for surprises instead of leaving money unassigned.
- Rebuild the sheet on payday if your income timing shifts.
FAQ
What if income changes mid-month?
Add a new income row and reassign only the new amount — don’t rewrite history.