Resources for a congressional office are given to Members and their staff by Congress and paid for by the American taxpayer. Spent wisely, those resources can greatly boost chances of success and achievement in Congress.

Due to recent budget cuts to congressional offices, CMF is offering resources on budgeting and financial management as well as some tips on handeling the budget cuts.

Operating a congressional office is like operating a small business. All small businesses require two things: a mission or purpose (a reason for existing), and resources to support that mission.

In Congress, you are largely responsible for developing your mission—your reason for coming to Washington—what you want to accomplish and contribute while here. This must be communicated in your strategic plan.

Your resources are given to you by Congress and paid for by the American taxpayer. Spent wisely, those resources can greatly boost your chances of success and achievement in Congress.

How do you accompish this when there are so many decisions to make regarding personnel, equipment, travel, and operating issues? To help you make smart spending decisions, CMF's "Budgeting and Financial Management" page provides guidance on avoiding problems, budgeting toward your goals, establishing financial procedures for your office, and cost-cutting methods. More detailed information can be found in Chapter 12 of "Setting Course: A Congressional Management Guide."

To read CMF's newest research and short manual on handling budget cuts click here.