Users on TikTok have been shifting the way people talk about finances. Recently, the ‘How I Budget’ trend is adding to the conversation.

Content creators, financial experts and everyday people are using TikTok to share how they approach budgeting. The shift to financial transparency may have some benefits, but many wonder if it is helpful or harmful.

What Is The ‘How I Budget’ Trend? 

The allure of using TikTok for financial tips stems from the assumption of financial transparency. It’s the idea that the person’s posts honestly depicts what they do and their earnings to help others. One example of this trend is “loud budgeting.” In any instance, gatekeeping financial knowledge is out. This generation is welcoming all of the tips to become financially free, while helping others to do the same. 

The ‘How I Budget’ trend breaks the silence on money management. On payday, several users share everything that they do to ensure that they’ll stay on budget. Break downs usually include everything from bills, social activities, subscriptions, credit card payments, and more.

While financial knowledge is not always prioritized in education, TikTok trends are reversing that and making budgeting accessible. They also offer insight into how to budget for your salary or pay range in cities around the world. 

Examples of Financial Transparency 

TikTok users are offering their best budgeting tips when people really need it the most. The social media app is helping to bridge the gap of financial literacy. While it is important to know as you navigate life, many people don’t learn how to manage their money until later in life.

One TikToker shares examples of $50 budgets per month to offer guides and realities for those curious. On her TikTok page, the financial coach showcases her life on and off her budget.

The ‘How I Budget’ trend is unique because it speaks to a range of salaries and lifestyles. TikTok videos from Ohh You Budget show viewers how to effectively budget for household items, travel and their favorite subscriptions.

@ohhyoubudget

Before I started doing no spend months to save for a specific savings goal, I felt like I could never get ahead with my sinking funds. I would set a fixed amount each month towards my sinking fund, but then turn around to use those accounts, leaving me back at square one. It wasn’t until I decided to dedicate a full month to one goal, and I would pair that with picking up extra shifts. No spend challenges have allowed me to fast-track my savings goals and it’s fun too! #budget #budgetplanner #budgeting #loyaltyprogram #redeemingpoints #howibudget #budgetwithme #paytransparency #budgetbreakdown #nospendchallenge #nospendmonth #savingmoney #trackyourspending #fintok #moneytok #budgettemplate #spendingmoney #torontolife #torontospending #lifestyleinfluencer #loudbudgeting #canadianinfluencer #blackinfluencer #financeinfluencer #fyp #ohhyoubudget

♬ original sound – OHH YOU BUDGET

The ultimate goal in each of these videos is to spread financial transparency and literacy. It is also a way to break down shame about conversations around budgeting. This trend exists to teach people how to organize their budget without feeling trapped by it.

Influencers Bragging Or Lying About Finances?

The ‘How I Budget’ trend empowered some to take financial control of their salaries, while it has left others unsure. The transparency is transformative for those who appreciate the examples of intentional budgeting, while for others, it doesn’t always seem sincere. 

A big criticism of the trend is that some videos are used to brag or outright lie about earnings. This makes for unrealistic expectations and hinders others in their own planning. Others may lie about how truthfully they stick to their budget, while raking in views for these same low budgets. 

As with all content creation-led videos, there is always the concern that brand deals and other sponsored posts are the real instigators behind the finance TikTok videos. This means that for some, there is resistance to trust these types of TikTok videos. 

While TikTok can be a great resource for some on their budgeting journeys, for others it may be extra noise. Gaining control over a personal budget may come from the inspiration of others’ payday routine, but ultimately it depends on your own learning or experience.