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How to Create Custom Spending Categories for Smarter Budgeting

How to Create Custom Spending Categories for Smarter Budgeting

Generic categories don’t always work. Custom categories let you personalize your budget around your lifestyle. Learn how to tailor your budget for maximum control and insight.

6/7/2025•3 min readBudgetingCustomizationCategories

"Your budget should fit your life—not the other way around."

Why Customization Matters

Every financial life is unique—so your budget should be too. Custom categories help you:

  • Spot hidden spending patterns
  • Set more meaningful goals
  • Stay motivated by tracking what matters most
  • Adapt to life changes (new job, kids, hobbies)

Example: Instead of a generic "Entertainment" category, create "Streaming Services," "Concerts," and "Board Games" to see exactly where your fun money goes.

Benefits of Custom Categories

  • Clarity: See exactly where your money goes
  • Control: Prioritize what’s important to you
  • Flexibility: Adjust as your life evolves
  • Motivation: Celebrate progress in areas that matter

Step-by-Step: Creating Custom Categories in SetMoney

  1. Open the SetMoney app.
  2. Click the + button at the bottom right.
  3. Click "Select Category".
  4. In the top right, click the + icon.
  5. Set the name, icon/emoji, and color.
  6. Save and start using your new category!

Pro Tip: Use colors to visually group similar categories (e.g., all family-related expenses in blue).

Don’t have SetMoney yet? Download on the App Store | Get it on Google Play

Creative Ideas for Custom Categories

  • "Weekend Fun"
  • "Kids’ Supplies"
  • "Side Hustle Income"
  • "Coffee Runs"
  • "Pet Care"
  • "Fitness & Wellness"
  • "Gifts & Celebrations"
  • "Travel Savings"
  • "Tech Upgrades"

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Too many categories: Keep it simple—too many can get overwhelming
  • Vague names: Be specific so you know what each category means
  • Forgetting to update: Review and adjust categories as your life changes

Real-Life Example: Anna’s Custom Budget

Anna used to lump all her spending into "Shopping." By creating custom categories like "Books," "Clothes," and "Gadgets," she discovered she was overspending on tech and adjusted her habits—saving $50/month!

Tips for Smarter Budgeting

  • Review your categories monthly
  • Merge or split categories as needed
  • Use emojis for fun and clarity (e.g., "🍕 Pizza Nights")
  • Set goals for specific categories (e.g., spend less on takeout)

Action Plan: Personalize Your Budget Today

  1. List your top spending areas
  2. Decide which need custom categories
  3. Create them in SetMoney
  4. Track and review regularly
  5. Adjust as your life changes!

Ready to organize your finances your way?

Download SetMoney on the App Store | Get it on Google Play

Create your perfect budget with SetMoney—customized for your real life.