Budgeting & Forecasting › Zero-Based Budgeting

What is zero-based budgeting (ZBB)?

Beginner

Answer

Zero-based budgeting is a method where every budget starts from a 'zero base' and all expenditures must be justified afresh for each new period, rather than starting from the previous budget. Each activity is evaluated for its need and cost as if it were new, so nothing is assumed to continue automatically.
Real-world example Under ZBB, each department must justify its entire budget from scratch, not just increases.

Common follow-ups: What does 'zero base' mean? | How does it differ from incremental budgeting?