 TITLE: How to Adjust Your Budget for Permanent Work From Home CONTENT: Working from home is a significant lifestyle change, and your home economics will inevitably change with it. Creating a permanent work-from-home budget doesn't have to be about documenting the differences between your pre- and post-pandemic spending. Instead, focus on where you're spending now and what changes you can make to improve efficiency—and productivity.\n1.  **Track your expenses.** Saving money on commuting is nice in theory, but you may already be compensating with higher-than-usual spending in other areas. The only way to know where you stand is to look at the actual numbers. Use a spreadsheet, app or pen and paper to keep track of all your expenses and see how much more you're saving (or spending) each month.\n2.  **Look for new saving opportunities.** Some of the best savings may not be automatic. For example, eliminating your daily commute may save you money on gas, car repairs and maintenance. But the reduced mileage may also qualify you for a discount on your car insurance, provided you think to ask your insurance company. One step further: Now that you don't need to drive to work, can you sell your car and get by without it?\n3.  **Evaluate pandemic spending.** When COVID-19 restrictions were in full swing, maybe you felt you needed to stockpile groceries, order frequent takeout and subscribe to multiple streaming services. Now is a great time to re-evaluate your expenses and weed out unnecessary costs.\n4.  **Find room for spending that improves your work life.** Whether you pine for fast internet, a cleaning service, an ergonomic chair or noise-canceling headphones, some splurges really can make working from home more pleasant and productive. While you may not have the resources for everything you want, try to find funding for significant and affordable improvements. END