Summer is a great time to relax, travel, and enjoy time with family. But let’s be honest, it can also be expensive. Between vacations, camps, eating out more often, and back-to-school shopping, many families find themselves spending more than planned. Now that school is back in session, it’s the perfect time to reset your household budget and get your finances back on track.

Here are a few simple ways to do just that.

1. Review Summer Spending

Start by looking at what you spent over the summer. Check your bank and credit card statements to see where your money went. Were there a lot of extra food deliveries? A last-minute trip? School supplies that added up faster than expected?

This exercise is not about judgment, and you don’t need to feel guilty. This is about gathering data to understand your spending habits. Once you know where your money went, you can make informed choices moving forward.

2. Plan for Remaining School Expenses

Even though school has started, the costs aren’t over. You may still need to pay for sports gear, club fees, or lunch money. Make a list of any upcoming school expenses, big or small. This helps you avoid surprises later.

If possible, set aside a small amount each week to cover these costs. Even $10 or $20 at a time can go a long way.

3. Adjust Your Routine to Save

School routines can actually help you spend less if you plan wisely. Packing lunches instead of buying them, cutting back on fast food, and sticking to a regular schedule can save both money and time.

Think about where you can make small changes. Maybe you cut back on drive-thru coffee, cook more meals at home, or use public transportation or carpools instead of driving everywhere.

4. Pause Unnecessary Spending

After a busy summer, it’s a good idea to take a break from extra spending. This doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. It just means to be more mindful. Limit online shopping, skip impulse buys, and avoid adding new subscriptions or streaming services for now.

One way to help is by doing a short “spending freeze.” Try going a week (or even a month) without buying anything that isn’t truly needed. It’s a great way to reset your habits, and it will help you see what you can truly live without and what you actually need to keep spending on.

5. Set a Simple Budget for Fall

If you don’t already have a budget, now is a great time to start. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Just write down your income, list your monthly bills, and see what’s left over. Then give every dollar a job, whether that’s groceries, savings, or fun.

Free budgeting apps or simple spreadsheets can help you stay organized.

We Can Help You Reset Your Household Budget After the Summer

The back-to-school season is a fresh start for the whole family, including your finances. By reviewing your spending, planning, and making a few small changes, you can recover from summer and head into fall feeling more in control. And remember, even small steps can lead to big progress. At DeSantis, Kiefer, Shall & Sarcone, our experts can help you reset your household budget and financially plan for the seasons ahead. Contact us so we can help you keep your finances in check and prepare for any expenses on the horizon!