May brings sunshine, warmth and happy thoughts about summer. However, summer could bring some budget challenges. Our credit counseling advice is to try to anticipate expenses as best as you can. Here are four unexpected May budget items to plan for as you prepare your household budget.
ACCC recommends budgeting for these unexpected May budget items.
4 Unexpected May Budget Items
Pest Control
The ants go marching two by two…You may be experiencing an unexpected ant invasion like we are. The warmer weather means ants, bees, spiders, mice and more are all making their way out of hiding. Protecting your home is important and can save you money. Preventative care against pests can save you a lot of money even though its a few hundred dollars in the moment.
Mother’s Day
Hopefully, you know that Mother’s Day is in May. However, you may not remember to actually budget for this expense in the budget. If your gift budget is low as you eliminate credit card debt, it might be time to boost it back up for May and June (Father’s Day). You can also look into no cost Mother’s Day options if you are really scrambling for cash. Spending time with your mom is pretty spectacular! Clean her house, make her a meal in her kitchen, or play some board games.
Sand Box Supplies
Do you have any kids eager for their beloved sand box to return? Sand is not that expensive. However, it remains an expense. Plus, you might need to replace the sand box if it didn’t hold up through the winter.
Lawn Care Tune Ups
Finally, that 10 year old lawn mower might need to be replaced. Depending on your lawn care needs, this could be anywhere from $200-$800. Maybe you need a new wheel barrow too. These costs by themselves might be doable, but you have to remember the month will probably bring other surprises too.
Remember all these potential unexpected May budget items as you plan for the month ahead.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
