Which type of budget is used for day-to-day expenses?

The operating budget is utilized for day-to-day expenses associated with running an organization. It encompasses all the anticipated revenues and expenditures for a specific time period, typically a fiscal year. In the context of fire services, this budget would cover essential functions such as salaries, utilities, equipment maintenance, training, and supplies necessary for routine operations.

This type of budget is critical for managing cash flow and ensuring that the organization can meet its operational needs without disruption. By breaking down the expenses into categories, it provides a clear overview of where funds are allocated and allows for more effective financial planning and management.

In contrast, a capital budget focuses on long-term investments in assets, such as buildings and vehicles, which are not accounted for in day-to-day operations. A zero-based budget starts from a "zero base" for each new budget period and requires justification for all expenses, rather than just taking last year’s budget and adjusting it. Lastly, a project budget is specific to a particular project and is used to allocate resources for that standalone initiative, rather than broader operational needs.