Method
Debt free budget: every dollar with a job, every date planned
A debt free budget is zero-based budgeting with a single priority: every available dollar serves the payoff plan. Fixed costs get their share, a small buffer is allowed, and the surplus attacks debt — with the payoff date projected on the calendar so the effort has a target.
- Every dollar assigned
Income minus essentials equals an intentional surplus — never a leak.
- Payoff date in view
The projection shows the day the last balance clears.
- Payments on autopilot
Recurring debt payments execute the plan every payday.
- Windfalls get jobs too
Bonuses and third checks route straight to the plan.
The zero-based structure
List income. Assign every dollar: essentials, minimum payments, buffer, then extra debt. When the balance reads zero and the surplus is scheduled, the plan is complete — and the calendar shows the payoff date moving closer with each payment.
Where windfalls go
- Tax refunds and bonuses: straight to the highest-priority debt
- Third paychecks: one more scheduled extra payment
- Gifts and side income: split between buffer and debt
Frequently asked questions
What is a debt free budget?
A budget where every dollar is assigned and the surplus is directed at debt until the balances clear.
How is it different from a normal budget?
The surplus is not optional — it is scheduled as a recurring debt payment with a visible payoff date.
Is it free?
Yes — the calendar, goals and recurring plans are free forever.
Every dollar, one destination
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