Template preview
Columns and one SAMPLE row from the Excel file. Print this page or use Print / Save as PDF in your browser if you need a PDF snapshot.
| Cost category | Description | Budget ($) | Committed ($) | Actuals ($) | Variance ($) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAMPLE — Materials | Panel, breakers, feeder for service upgrade | 6200 | 5800 | 4100 | 2100 | PO-118; remaining gear on order |
How to use this template
- Download the spreadsheet. Get the Excel budget template — no signup required.
- List cost categories. Break the job into materials, labor, equipment, subcontract, and allowances that match how you buy.
- Enter budget, then actuals. Update committed and actuals as POs and invoices land. Keep variance = budget − actuals (or your own formula).
- Review weekly. Scan negative variances early — before the final invoice surprises the owner.
Simple job costing without ERP
This sheet is a construction job costing spreadsheet lite: enough columns to see where money went, not a full cost-code system. Electrical crews often start with materials vs labor vs rental.
This template is an original ProtoPM form for planning and tracking. It is not a legal contract and is not affiliated with AIA, CCDC, or other standard forms. Adapt it for your trade and jurisdiction.
Tips for small contractors
One workbook per job. Freeze the header row. Do not mix two projects on the same sheet.
- Budget = what you sold or planned
- Committed = POs and awards not yet invoiced
- Actuals = paid or booked costs
Use it in ProtoPM instead
ProtoPM Financials tracks budget, forecast, and actuals on the project with invoices and change-driven updates — so costing stays with the job, not a lost file.
- Budget / forecast / actuals on Financials
- Invoices and Guest billing on the same project
- Free covers 3 active projects
Want this connected to your projects?
Want budget and invoices connected to your projects? Try ProtoPM Financials — free for small crews.
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Common questions
- Is this a free construction job costing spreadsheet?
- Yes. The budget template includes budget, committed, actuals, and variance columns for simple job costing. Download Excel free from this page.
- Does ProtoPM do full cost-code job costing?
- ProtoPM Financials covers budget, forecast, actuals, and invoices. Deep cost-code estimate lines live on Bid Board when that feature is enabled — not required for this template.
Ready to leave the spreadsheet?
Create a free ProtoPM account for live projects — schedule, field, costs, and changes in one place. Complimentary 7-day Pro trial.
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