We have a budget but my spouse often doesn't stick to it. How do we deal with this?

Understand the cause first, because people break a budget when it is unrealistic, when they forget, or when they never truly agreed to it in the first place. Review the budget together so it is reasonable, including a little room for each person's own wants. Use a method that is easy to follow, such as a weekly cash amount for free spending. Avoid shaming your spouse over every slip; encourage honesty by asking, not judging. If the overspending continues and affects the family, bring it up as a shared problem to solve, not a battle. If you reach a dead end, a financial or family counsellor can help. See family finances.