Q13 (a) Tom Dunphy is studying at third level. He has €400 in opening cash on 1 October. He has provided the following information:
ґTom plans to spend €300 a month on groceries and food. ґ●Bills for electricity will amount to €45 in October, €50 in November and €80 in December. ґTom’s mobile phone will cost €25 in October, €30 in November and €25 in December
ґTom plans to spend €80 a month on entertainment. He will spend an additional €100 in November for a college trip away.
Using the information provided, complete Tom’s budget. Tom’s total income and fixed expenditure has been completed for you.
Tom’s Budget
Planned Income Tom, wages SUSI grant
Family allowance Total Income (A)
Planned Expenditure Fixed Expenditure Rent
Subtotal
Irregular Expenditure Groceries and food Electricity Mobile phone Subtotal Discretionary Expenditure Entertainment Subtotal Total Expenditure (B) Net Cash (A−B) Opening Cash Closing Cash
(b) Tom was considering buying a new laptop for €600 in November. Based on his budget, do you think this is a good decision?