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How to Budget for a Retirement BBQ

How to · Event

How to Budget for a Retirement BBQ

Plan your guest list and shop supermarket sales to throw a solid retirement party for about $39 a month.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $700 before anything else
Across the 0% window $38.89/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $700 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A good retirement BBQ is about the people and the grill, not the stress of a big bill on Monday morning. You need time to watch for sales on brisket or ribs and to get the guest list right. Starting a few months early lets you buy the non-perishables when they are cheap rather than paying full price the day before the party.

If we spread the $700 cost over a year and a half, the math gets much easier. It turns a big one-time hit into a small monthly habit while you focus on the guest of honor. We can make this work by using time to our advantage.

This plan only works if you pay off the balance before the 18 months are up. If you still owe money when the clock runs out, the interest kicks in on whatever is left, making those burgers a lot more expensive than you planned.

The steps

  1. 01

    Finalize the headcount

    Decide who is coming at least six weeks out. This dictates how many pounds of meat and cases of drinks you actually need. Don't guess because an extra ten people can break the budget.

  2. 02

    Watch the circulars

    Start checking supermarket apps for sales on expensive proteins like steak or salmon. Buy them when the price drops and keep them in the freezer. It is the easiest way to cut your total cost down.

  3. 03

    Use a long window

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi) offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. If you put the $700 on this card and pay about $38.89 a month, you finish the balance just as the intro window closes.

  4. 04

    Stock up on dry goods

    Buy plates, napkins, and charcoal a month early. These do not go bad and are often cheaper at warehouse clubs. Getting this out of the way means you only have to worry about fresh produce the week of the event.

  5. 05

    Keep the drinks simple

    Skip the full bar and stick to a few types of beer, wine, and a signature punch. People drink what is available. Buying in bulk at a dedicated liquor store usually nets a discount over the local grocery store.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Is 18 months enough time to pay it off?

At $38.89 a month for a $700 party, you will be done exactly when the window closes. It is a steady pace that keeps your monthly budget from feeling the pinch.

Can I use this for the grocery store?

Yes, you can use the card for all your party supplies and food. Just make sure you are tracking your total so you do not go over the $700 you planned for.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can sometimes end your intro rate early. Set up an autopay for the monthly amount to keep your interest at zero.

Do I need to pay for everything at once?

No, you can buy things as they go on sale. The 18-month window starts when you open the account, so use that time to shop smart.