Question

What is most likely the reason variable expenses should be planned after fixed expenses?

Fixed expenses are deducted from gross income, and variable expenses come from net income.
Variable expenses are a necessary part of fixed expenses but can only be calculated after fixed expenses.
Variable expenses are almost always higher than fixed expenses and need a greater budget.
Fixed expenses are required and constant, but variable expenses are more flexible.

Answer 1

"Fixed expenses are required and constant, but variable expenses are more flexible."

Explanation: fixed costs (rent, loan payments, insurance) must be covered first because they are nonnegotiable. Once those necessities are planned for, you allocate remaining income to variable (adjustable) items like groceries, entertainment, and transportation.