How to Budget on an Irregular Income

Freelancers, gig workers, and commission earners know the struggle: one month is great, the next is lean. Here’s how to build stability when your paycheck plays hide-and-seek.

1. Find your baseline.Average your last 6–12 months of income. That’s your “normal.” Base bills on that, not on your best month.

2. Build a buffer.Aim for one month’s expenses in a separate account. When a slow month hits, you pay yourself from the buffer.

3. Prioritize fixed costs.Rent, insurance, utilities come first. Fun and extras wait until the essentials are covered.

4. Separate business and personal.Use two bank accounts — taxes and operating costs stay out of your grocery money.

5. Pay yourself a salary.Transfer a steady “paycheck” from your business or main account every two weeks. You’ll feel more stable — and spend less emotionally.

Irregular income doesn’t mean unpredictable life. The key is smoothing out your peaks and valleys before they mess with your mindset.