Irregular Income Planner
When income goes up and down, budgeting feels impossible. Enter your income for the last 6 to 12 months and we will suggest a steady "safe salary" to pay yourself, plus the buffer to keep for slow months.
How this calculator works
- Average = total income ÷ number of months
- Safe salary = the lower of your lowest month or 80% of your average
- Buffer to keep = 3 × safe salary
Pay all income into a business or holding account, then pay yourself the same safe salary every month. Good months refill the buffer; slow months draw from it.
Worked example
Your last six months were 3,000, 4,000, 5,000, 2,000, 6,000 and 4,000.
- Average = 24,000 ÷ 6 = 4,000; 80% of average = 3,200
- Lowest month = 2,000
- Safe salary = lower of 2,000 and 3,200 = 2,000
- Buffer = 3 × 2,000 = 6,000
Frequently asked questions
Should I use income before or after tax?
Use income after business costs and after setting aside tax. That is the money you can actually spend.
Why not just use my average?
Your average includes your best months. Paying yourself the average means you will run short in every below-average month.
How many months of data do I need?
At least 6. Twelve months is better because it captures seasonal patterns like slow holidays.
What do I do with extra money in good months?
Top up your buffer first. Once it is full, move extra to savings, investing or debt payments.
When should I raise my salary?
Review every 3 to 6 months. If your buffer stays full and your lowest months improve, raise your salary a little.
Related guides
Results are estimates for general education, not financial advice. Disclaimer.