Your business should generate enough income for you to at least maintain your standard of living. We explain what counts as living expenses.
On the expenditure side, there are private housing costs such as rent, utilities and repairs, and the costs of your personal phone, broadcasting fee or streaming services. Mobility costs money – whether you use a Deutschlandticket or a car, including fuel, insurance and taxes. Your insurance, loan repayments and savings plans, spending on food, clothing, furniture and leisure activities are also included. So are pocket money and tutoring for your children.
If you share expenses with a partner, halve the relevant item. Divide expenses that do not arise every month by 12 months.
Now subtract your monthly income, such as maintenance payments, child benefit, unemployment benefits or Bürgergeld, or part of your partner’s income. The difference is your living expenses.
We also answer detailed questions on this and other aspects of starting a business in our startup event series.
