Free tool
Budget variance calculator
Compare what you planned with what happened, for a revenue or an expense line.
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How it works
How it works
Variance = actual minus budget. For revenue, above budget is favorable. For an expense, below budget is favorable. The percent is the variance divided by the budget.
FAQ
About this calculator
What is a budget variance?
The difference between what you planned to earn or spend and what you actually did.
Is a variance always bad?
No. A favorable variance can come from selling more or spending less, but check the cause, such as delayed spending that comes due next month.
How often should I review variances?
Monthly is common for small businesses, so you can adjust before the year ends.
Is anything saved?
No. The math runs in your browser and nothing you enter is sent to us.
Is this tax or financial advice?
No. It is a calculator for general information. Check the numbers against your own records, and ask an accountant before you act on them.
Read the guide: Zero-Based Budgeting: Give Every Dollar a Job. Related: cash flow and burn rate calculator, operating margin calculator. See all free tools. More free tools: Cash flow and burn rate calculator, EBITDA calculator, Employee cost calculator, or see all free tools.
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Excel workbook
Budget vs Actual Workbook
Set a budget for each income and expense line, enter your actuals as the months close, and see what is over, what is under and where the year is heading.
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