This ultra-popular budgeting method on TikTok will help you regain control of your finances without depriving yourself.

The viral zero-based budgeting is more than just another trend. Driven by content creators like @hermoneymastery,  this method is attracting more and more followers looking for healthier finances.

The principle? Allocate every dollar of your income to a specific task so that your budget reaches zero at the end of the month. This doesn't mean emptying your account but rather planning how to use every penny intentionally.

How to regain control over your money

With this method, you'll allocate your money as soon as you receive it rather than spending it impromptu. You take the amount you have and ask yourself: "What will I use this money for until my next payday?" The goal is to pay essential expenses first—rent, bills, subscriptions, debts—then allocate the rest to other categories: gas, going out, groceries, entertainment, etc. Nothing is left to chance, which helps dissipate end-of-month stress and avoid forgetting or impulsive spending.

Creator @lifewithbethanny shared an example: Each month, with her $3,800 income, she starts by setting aside what she needs for her financial obligations (housing, insurance, credit cards, etc.), then adds to her savings accounts. Once all that's planned out, she has about $800 left, which she divides between groceries, entertainment, gas, and even car maintenance.

Follow this hack and you'll know exactly where your money is going, and you no longer find yourself wondering if you can afford a restaurant or a night out with friends. If you go over our budget for drinks, wait until the next payday. Simple and effective.

How can you get started with zero-based budgeting?

Start by listing your fixed monthly expenses (housing, bills, subscriptions). Then, establish a realistic budget for other categories (groceries, transportation, going out, etc.).

You can keep a small cushion in your checking account for unexpected expenses, but the idea is to spread every dollar. Keep track of your spending closely, whether through a spreadsheet, an app, or a notebook. It may seem tedious at first, but you'll quickly feel more organized and in control.

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