> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.hostelmate.co/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.hostelmate.co/finance-management/resources/expense-categories.md).

# Expense Categories

Tailor your expense tracking by maintaining the list of categories available when recording outgoing payments.

## Edit Category List

Use the **Edit Expenses List** section to add, rename, or remove categories so your reports reflect the right level of detail.

| Category            |
| ------------------- |
| Booking commissions |
| Rent                |
| Salary              |
| Tissues             |
| Grocery             |

* Add new categories as your operations expand—think utilities, maintenance, or marketing.
* Rename existing categories to match your accounting terminology.
* Remove unused categories to keep the selection list concise for staff entering expenses.
* Drag and drop categories to set the display order, then save your changes.

## Why It Matters

* The categories you define here feed directly into the **Monthly Expenses** donut chart and table, giving you cleaner analytics.
* Accurate categorization makes it easier to reconcile with accounting software or exportable ledgers.
* Consistent naming conventions help staff choose the correct category every time they log an expense.