Last week you worked 80 hours, but this month you only got 10. How are you supposed to make and follow a budget when you're rich this week but poor the next? Don't worry, we've put together some useful tips to help you make a budget, whether you get paid or not.

When mapping your monthly income, account for possible fluctuations. Whether your boss decides to cut your hours or midterms have you temporarily tied-up, account for downtime. Gauge your income on a 3- to 6-month average and you'll be able to get a clearer picture of your average income.

Break down your monthly expenses systematically. Know what your fixed expenses are: Rent, mortgage payments, utilities, tuition, or loan payments. Next, itemize your variable expenses: gas, groceries, auto maintenance, textbooks and leisure--break it down by the week if it helps.

You may not be able to keep all your expenses if your boss cuts your hours, so decide ahead of time how you can plan for periods when you have less income.

• Flag what expenses can be cut from your budget temporarily (and maybe even permanently) when money gets tight. Can you give up your Netflix membership for a few months?
• Utilize resources for low-income households, such as food stamps. Always update the government when your income fluctuates as you may become ineligible.
• Build up a savings account during the months you're able to earn more money so you can dip into it during times when money is tight.

Get another roommate who will split up rent and utilities with you. Websites like craigslist.com and roommates.com are free resources to help you explore roommate options. Create carpools with your co-workers to save on gas and wear and tear.

If you're a college student, take advantage of free resources:

• Apply for grants and scholarships that can help pay living expenses as well as tuition. It's free money to pad your irregular income, and you don't have to pay it back.
• Check out your school's health care coverage.
• Use your campus' free wireless internet.
   

Sources:

nationalpayrollweek.com; betterbudgeting.com