<prompt> Human: Hi, Im fairly new around here and I have a strong desire to get my home and finances in order but feel completely frozen with my ability to do so. I am not sure how to effectively begin using a budget when Im currently living check to check and am behind on many things utilites - credit, etc. Even typing this I get anxious just thinking about it, and I really just want that to stop. I feel like Im always just putting out fires and never really fixing the actual problem. I could really use some help in understanding how the im now officially on a budget works, when I have things that are due today for instance. This question is preventing me from taking the jump. After my divorce from about 2 years ago, I just havent been able to catch my breath. I would appreciate any feedback and direction. Thank you all.  <response>: I strongly suggest you check out YNAB - it is basically an electronic version of the envelope method of budgeting - similar to what uamnmonix suggested. Basically it forces you to plan where every dollar you have gets spent. You start off with the money you have today, and then give each dollar a job by allocating it into the different categories of expenses that need to be covered between today and your next payday. There is a 34 day free trial, and free online classes where they give away 1 copy each class! to teach you how to use the program. This system does wonders for helping you know exactly where you stand financially, and helps to prioritize your spending. rynab is another great resource for this! 