If you’re trying to get a grip on your finances after suffering an unexpected loss often the hardest part is just figuring out where to start. Budgeting can be a helpful tool to figure out what income you have, what monthly and annual expenses/investments you’re facing, and what assets, or possessions of financial value, you may already own.

After experiencing an unexpected life change you may very well feel lost. You have found yourself in different circumstances and your financial situation may have changed as well. We want to help you set up, improve, or change the way you budget. As you complete each section of this budgeting worksheet, you’ll begin to feel more confident about how to take control of your finances.

Be easy on yourself as you go through this process. Look for help from trusted friends, family members or financial professionals if you really feel stuck or are unsure how to take the next step in getting a handle on your money. This process is about your personal situation and you need to work through it at your own pace.