expression, ichidan verb
tighten the household budget; economize at home
Rare expression meaning to cut back on household spending. The verb 締める here is used in the sense of tightening or economizing, as in 財布の紐を締める.
See also: 締める (しめる)
収入が減ったので、家計を締めなければならない。
Since our income has decreased, we have to tighten our household budget.
Compound of 家計 (household finances) + を + 締める (to tighten). The use of 締める in the sense of economizing is also seen in related expressions like 財布の紐を締める.