Money Management for Substack Creators: Building a System That Works When Income Isn’t Predictable
Quick mention before we begin…
👉 Join me on Chime and get $100. Terms apply.
One of the hardest parts about building a Substack isn’t writing—it’s managing the money that comes with it.
Because here’s the truth: creator income doesn’t come in a straight line.
Some months you get a big sponsor check, a few affiliate payments, and new paid subscribers.
Other months, you’re wondering if your Stripe account still works.
That’s why money management for creators has to be about rhythm, not rigidity.
Here’s what I’ve learned trying to build Run The Money and other projects:
1. Treat your creator income like a business
Open a separate checking account for your creator work.
It helps you see what’s actually coming in, what’s going out, and what’s left to save or reinvest.
Even if you’re earning a few hundred bucks, that separation builds discipline and clarity.
2. Automate everything you can
Set up automatic transfers for taxes (I do 25%), tithing, and savings.
If it’s not automated, you’ll forget—or you’ll spend it.
Chime’s automatic saving feature makes this stupidly easy, and it’s one of the reasons I use it.
3. Build a “slow month” fund
Creators don’t need six months of expenses like personal finance gurus claim.
But you do need a 1–2 month cushion when sponsorships dip or subscriber renewals slow down.
That fund buys peace of mind—and creative freedom.
4. Pay yourself, even a little
When you start earning from your newsletter, make it a rule: pay yourself something every month, even if it’s $25.
That rhythm matters more than the amount.
It trains your brain to see your Substack as a business, not just a passion project.
5. Know your runway
Your “runway” is how long you can keep writing if no new money comes in.
Know that number.
Respect it.
And use it as motivation to diversify—through sponsors, affiliates, or premium tiers.
Creators don’t need complex spreadsheets or financial degrees.
We just need a simple, sustainable system that fits how money really flows in this space.
If you want an easy way to manage your cash flow, try Chime—it’s what I use personally:
👉 Join me on Chime and get $100. Terms apply.
Because the real goal isn’t just to make more money—it’s to manage it well enough to keep creating.