Look at when money arrives
A tailor, shopkeeper or independent worker may be paid at uneven intervals. Record money actually received, its date and source. A customer’s promise remains expected income until payment arrives.
- Separate business receipts from money available for household use.
- Account for materials and other work costs first.
- Compare quieter and busier weeks.
Plan the week as well as the month
Compare income dates with essential payment dates. A month can show a surplus while one week still has a shortfall.
WORKED EXAMPLE
20,000 + 35,000 − 45,000 = 10,000 RWF
Example: start with 20,000 RWF, receive 35,000 RWF and pay 45,000 RWF. The balance is 10,000 RWF. If next week needs 30,000 RWF before another payment arrives, the gap is 20,000 RWF.
General guidance source: CFPB — Tracking income and cash-flow planning ↗
Prepare for a quieter period
- Identify essential needs and existing commitments.
- In a stronger period, review what can support a later week.
- If a gap appears, contact the person owed before the due date.
- Update the plan when payment arrives or a cost changes.