I recently searched the App Store for budgeting apps, but the best or most recommended ones were all subscription apps, and quite expensive, like Copilot and EveryDollar. I’m looking for a secure, easy-to-use budget planner/record-keeper that’s either free or doesn’t cost $100 a year.
2 Likes
Search for “Microsoft Money Sunset Deluxe.” There are no subscription components; you can download and use it without cost (not from the Microsoft shop). Nevertheless, neither support nor updates are offered. There is no downloading from your financial institutions—all data is entered manually. It’s really simple to use, allows you to run reports, and allows you to search for entries, categories, and custom time periods if you enter all of your transactions once a day or twice. I’ve had MS Money for nineteen years!
1 Like
Here are some excellent free or affordable budgeting apps that won’t strain your finances:
Free Options:
- Mint: A popular budgeting app developed by Intuit. It securely links to your bank accounts and credit cards to automatically categorize transactions and monitor your spending. While the basic features are free, there are premium features available with a subscription. (Link: https://mint.intuit.com/)
- PocketGuard: Another free app with robust features. It analyzes your spending patterns, identifies areas for savings, and even offers assistance with bill negotiation (note: bill negotiation services may involve success fees). It ensures secure connections for linking bank accounts. (Link: https://pocketguard.com/)
- YNAB (You Need A Budget): Although YNAB offers a free trial, it’s primarily a paid app with a solid reputation. However, its pricing model is unique—it requires a one-time fee of approximately $80, rather than a recurring subscription. This could be a suitable choice if you prefer a non-subscription approach.
- Dollarbird: A completely free app that enables manual tracking of income and expenses. It offers features such as category-based budgeting, goal setting, and report generation. While it lacks automatic bank account syncing, it’s ideal for users who prefer a more hands-on approach. Ensure to implement strong security measures when using manual entry.
Affordable Paid Options (aside from YNAB):
- Empower: This app provides budgeting functionalities alongside other financial tools like credit monitoring and bill payment. It offers a free tier with basic features and a premium tier with enhanced features for approximately $6 per month.
- Goodbudget: Utilizing a distinctive “envelope budgeting” system, this app allows you to allocate funds to digital envelopes for various spending categories. It offers a free basic plan with limited envelopes and a paid plan with unlimited envelopes for about $8 per month.
2 Likes
Oh no! I understand what you went through. Everyone is aware of the term ‘subscription fatigue. ’ However, this term has become relevant largely due to personal finance apps. Here’s the good news: In a similar regard, there are some of the best and high-quality free budgeting tools available in the market.
If you have seen the envelope method, or digital cash envelopes in particular, then Good budget is an excellent free application that allows you virtually allocate this sum of money.
One may pinpoint such an application that fits his or her style. However, with these options, you can certainly discover a secure and easily navigated budget planner that costs a handsome penny!
2 Likes
Quicken is what I use, and it feels kind of like copilot. Empower is available for free trial and emphasizes the investment side of things. I believe Moneyspire costs roughly $50 annually.