May 2016: Income and Expenses

    The month of May was a fairly quiet one for me. With lower than average spending and income as well. And because of this I did not get to save quite as much cash as I would have like, however I am happy that I still managed to do so. At least I got to enjoy some extra leisure time.

Income	$
Work	1186.68
Bonus	56.91
Dividends	98.83
Total	1342.42

    As I mentioned, income from work was lower than my average due to fewer shifts/hours going around. So after deductions I only earned $1,186. Supplementing my cash flow (bonus) was the monthly government payment.

    My dividends for the month were quite nice, almost breaking the $100 mark. Although below my total average of dividend income, May was on schedule and was about the same as the previously comparable month for dividends.

    Overall, income was not too bad considering all the extra free time I got to enjoy the improving weather. Getting more money for your time is always a delicate trade off. 

Expenses	$
Rent	750
Phone	22.6098
Travel/Commute	29
Groceries	190.85
Restaurants	92.87
Entertainment	70.15
Other	19.98
Total	1175.45

    Expenses were for the most part average, with no big ticket items, or unexpected purchases. Thankfully no more computer part breakdowns like in March! Most of my spending was usual, although I spent more than I would have liked eating out; then again sushi date nights are totally worth it!

    General travel and commuting costs were very low due to fewer days having to go into work and having bought a large number of transit tokens previously.

    I am hoping that I will be able to pick up more hours going forward, although if not then I will continue to enjoy a 'summer break' of sorts. And I still managed a savings rate of 12%, in part due to my dividends representing 7.4% of my income, had I not taken the time to build up my portfolio of dividend paying stocks, I would be getting by pay cheque to pay cheque. Instead, no matter what a portion of each months earnings goes directly into my Questrade tax free savings account.