Which of the following is NOT a component of a budget?

A budget is a financial plan that outlines expected income and expenses, helping individuals manage their finances effectively. The components of a budget typically include elements that directly relate to income and expenditures, such as saving, giving, and income itself.

Saving represents the funds set aside for future use and is an essential aspect of financial planning. Giving refers to the allocation of funds for charitable donations or gifts, which can also be a planned expense in a budget. Income is the total money earned from various sources, which forms the foundation of any budget as it dictates how much can be spent or saved.

In contrast, a credit score is a numerical representation of a person's creditworthiness, based on their credit history and debts. Although maintaining a good credit score is crucial for financial health, it is not a direct component of a budget. Rather, a credit score is a metric that may influence financial decisions and budgeting strategies but does not itself serve as part of the budgeting process.