The term “per month” refers to a regular interval of one month and is commonly used to describe recurring activities, measurements, or financial transactions that occur on a monthly basis. This can include monthly expenses such as rent, utilities, or subscriptions, as well as monthly income such as salaries, pensions, or rental income.
Usage in Context
Monthly Expenses
“Per month” is frequently used to delineate recurring expenses that are due every month. Examples include:
- Rent or Mortgage Payments: \( $1,500 \) per month.
- Utility Bills: Electric, water, and internet bills often listed as monthly charges.
- Subscriptions: Gym memberships, streaming services, and magazine subscriptions are typically billed per month.
Monthly Income
Similarly, income is often discussed in terms of monthly earnings:
- Salaries: Employees may receive a set salary per month, e.g., \( $3,000 \) per month before taxes.
- Rental Income: Property owners might earn a rental income of \( $2,000 \) per month from leasing their property.
- Pensions and Annuities: These retirement funds are often disbursed on a monthly schedule.
Historical Context
The concept of “per month” dates back to ancient civilizations where the lunar cycle was one of the earliest methods used to track time. Monthly accounting has since evolved to become a standard unit of measure in modern financial and economic systems.
Special Considerations
Budgeting
When creating a budget, it is crucial to consider all expenses and income on a per month basis to manage finances effectively.
Contracts and Agreements
Many legal and financial agreements are outlined in monthly terms, stipulating the amount payable or receivable per month.
Examples
- A tenant agrees to pay \( $1,200 \) per month for rent.
- A freelance consultant charges their client \( $500 \) per month for ongoing services.
- A streaming service subscription costs \( $15 \) per month.
Applicability
The term “per month” is applicable in various fields such as finance, accounting, real estate, and personal budgeting. It helps standardize rates and make comparisons easier.
Related Terms
Annual
“Annual” relates to a period of one year, often used for budgeting or accounting purposes to show yearly expenses or income.
Biweekly
“Biweekly” describes a period of two weeks. Some businesses and organizations pay their employees biweekly rather than monthly.
Quarterly
“Quarterly” implies a period of three months. Reports and financial statements are often prepared quarterly.
FAQs
What is the difference between 'per month' and 'monthly'?
Why is 'per month' important in budgeting?
Can 'per month' apply to non-financial contexts?
References
- “Understanding Monthly Budgeting,” Financial Literacy, Financial Educators Council.
- “Historical Development of the Calendar,” National Museum of Natural History.
- “Personal Finance for Dummies,” Eric Tyson, Wiley Publishing.
Summary
The term “per month” is a fundamental concept in personal and professional financial management, indicating regular intervals of one month for expenses or income. Its usage extends to various domains, facilitating standardized financial planning and comparison.
By grasping the implications and proper applications of “per month,” individuals and businesses can manage their finances more effectively, ensuring stability and foresight in fiscal matters.
