How do I budget when my income is irregular or commission-based?

Budget off your reliable baseline, not your best month. Look back over the past 12 months and take a conservative figure – often the average of your lower months – as your 'salary.' In strong months, the surplus goes first into a buffer account, then toward goals; in lean months, you draw from that buffer to pay yourself a steady amount. This smooths the peaks and valleys so your fixed bills never depend on a single commission check clearing. Aim for a larger emergency cushion than a salaried worker would keep, since your downside is bumpier. Cover essential bills first each month, fund the buffer second, and treat windfall months as a chance to get ahead rather than to upgrade your lifestyle.