How can I budget when I live paycheck to paycheck?

First, track every single dollar for 30 days — use an app like YNAB or just a spreadsheet. You said money disappears, and it always does when you don't track it. The "I don't buy fancy stuff" trap is real — it's usually subscriptions, random food orders, impulse buys at Target, and small purchases that add up to $400-600/month. Here's a simple framework: 50% needs ($1,600), 30% wants (fun, dining, shopping), 20% savings/debt. Your numbers show you're spending about $1,600 on needs already, which leaves $1,600. If that's all gone in 15 days, your "wants" category is way too high. Cut subscriptions you forgot about. Cancel anything you haven't used in 30 days. Set up automatic transfers to a separate savings account the day you get paid — pay yourself first. Even $100/month builds a habit and an emergency fund over time.