Discretionary income is how much money you have left after paying for necessary expenses. It determines student loan payments under income-driven repayment. Credit cards ...

Variable costs are unfixed, discretionary costs that include gas, clothing, entertainment, pet supplies and dining out at restaurants. Your electric bill is a variable expense, too, unless you've ...

A new chart illustrates the futility of freezing discretionary spending in economic recovery efforts. Business Insider Subscribe Newsletters ...