Budget Calculator (50/30/20)
Split your income by the 50/30/20 rule: needs, wants, savings.
Tip: The 50/30/20 rule: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, 20% for savings and debt repayment.
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About this digital tool
The personal budget calculator splits net income by the 50/30/20 rule: 50% for needs (rent, bills, food, transport), 30% for wants (entertainment, trips, non-essential purchases) and 20% for savings or debt repayment. Enter your monthly income and the tool immediately gives the concrete amounts for each category.
It is a simple starting point for people who have never kept a budget, for young families and for working students. It is not a law: in expensive cities like Tirana or Pristina needs can take more than 50%, and then you adjust the percentages. The result is an estimate and should be adapted to your own situation.
How to use
- Enter your monthly net income (after taxes).
- See the 50/30/20 split with the corresponding amounts.
- Adjust the percentages to suit your situation.
Frequently asked questions
What is included in 'needs'?
Rent or home loan payment, bills (electricity, water, internet), basic food, transport, insurance and minimum debt payments.
What if I can't split it 50/30/20?
Adapt it to your situation — e.g. 60/20/20 or 70/20/10. What matters is having a plan and saving something every month.
How does the 50/30/20 rule work?
Net income is split into three parts: 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings or debts. With 100,000 lek net, that gives 50,000 / 30,000 / 20,000 lek.
Should I calculate it on gross or net pay?
On net pay, that is the amount that actually reaches your account after taxes and contributions. Gross artificially inflates the budget.
How do I adjust the budget if my rent is high?
Increase the needs share and reduce wants, but try to protect as much of the savings share as you can. Review your spending from time to time to find where you can save.