Trying to think of a way to educate my fiance on budgeting, any suggestions?

Question

I've tackled most of the budgeting between her and I myself, while trying to teach her a few different systems to keep track of our finances. Anything from just using different envelopes to keep track, to using various software to help. It's just not working though, frankly it's starting to worry me too. She buzzed through practically our entire next month's rent in a week and a half...so I'm kinda freaking out. And no, rent's nothing that I can't replace, I'm just worried about her doing something like that again.

Answer 1

Have you thought about giving her an allowance just until she learns to live within her means?

Answer 2

You haven't used fear yet?

Answer 3

I suggest sitting down with her and doing the budget together.  That way she gets her input.  Maybe she's worried that she won't get the things that she wants, so she just spends the money.  If you sit down together to do the budget you'll be able to compromise.  Also, if you sit there and do it together and agree on it, then make it clear that if she spends next months rent on things other than rent, then she's going back on her word.  

Answer 4

I suggest that you have her carry around cash instead of using cards.  It's easier to really know how much you have been spending and how much you have left if you're pulling the money from your pocket instead of constantly swipping a card and not keeping a running balance.

Answer 5

Is she working?  

You probably should start a savings account.  Put the "untouchable" money in that account.  Neither of you can get it out except with both signatures.  So some of the money is safe.

Then give her a budget, an allowance to work with.  Put all receipts from each days' purchases in the kitchen in a shoe box or clear plastic box.  Talk about those receipts each day.  Yes, have her empty her purse and get those receipts in the box.  Talk about necessary spending like gas, groceries, etc.  And then talk about frivolous spending.  She only gets so much each day and that has to spent only on essentials.  Sticking to a budget is HARD and it takes lots of talking about... but once you both get in the habit of talking about expenses, it will make life much better.  Money is the number one source for divorce... yes, that is true.