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Budget Spreadsheet and App Options to Get Organized
Getting your finances organized can feel overwhelming. Where do you even start? Luckily there are tons of great budgeting tools out there – from simple spreadsheets to handy smartphone apps. These can help track expenses, create spending plans, and get your money sorted out.
In this article, we’ll go over some of the top options for budget spreadsheets and apps. We’ll look at the key features of each, as well as the pros and cons. There’s no one size fits all approach, so hopefully this gives you a good starting point to find the right solution for your needs. Let’s dive in!
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Spreadsheet Options
Spreadsheets are a tried and true way to budget. They let you fully customize categories and track every penny. If you like hands-on control, spreadsheets can be great. Here are some popular options:
Google Sheets
Google Sheets is a free and easy way to build a DIY budget. Since it’s part of Google’s free Drive suite, your budget is accessible from any device.
Pros:
- Totally free to use
- Easy to share with others (like your partner)
- Can access from any device
Cons:
- Not as automated as some apps
- Formulas can get complex for advanced users
Microsoft Excel
Excel is the spreadsheet gold standard, with powerful features for complex budgets. But it also has a cost attached.
Pros:
- Robust formulas and formatting options
- Ability to create charts and graphs
- Familiar interface for many users
Cons:
- Not free (must buy Microsoft Office subscription)
- Steep learning curve for beginners
Apple Numbers
Numbers is Apple’s spreadsheet app, free for Mac users. It has many built-in templates to get you started.
Pros:
- Streamlined design
- Hundreds of templates
- Free if you own a Mac
Cons:
- Only available on Mac/iOS, not Windows
- Less functionality than advanced Excel users may want
Budgeting App Options
Apps can automate a lot of the tedious parts of budgeting. They connect to your accounts, track spending, and categorize expenses. Many have free versions, making them accessible.
Mint
Mint is one of the most popular free budgeting apps. It has robust expense tracking and reporting.
Pros:
- Totally free
- Syncs with many accounts
- Good for tracking past spending
Cons:
- Can feel overwhelming for beginners
- May need to re-categorize some transactions
You Need a Budget (YNAB)
YNAB has a cult following for its “envelope budgeting” approach. The app focuses on planning ahead.
Pros:
- Helpful workshops and resources
- Encourages proactive budgeting
- Web and mobile access
Cons:
- $84 annual fee
- Steep learning curve
Goodbudget
Goodbudget uses the “envelope” method but in a user-friendly, intuitive way. It’s great for couples and families.
Pros:
- Free version available
- Easy to use and understand
- Facilitates sharing budgets
Cons:
- Lack some advanced features of paid apps
- Primarily a mobile experience
EveryDollar
From finance guru Dave Ramsey, EveryDollar is focused on giving you a zero-based budget.
Pros:
- Free version available
- Easy to use
- Ramsey’s budgeting methodology built-in
Cons:
- Less automated than other apps
- Must adjust for income manually
Spreadsheet or App: Which is Right for You?
So should you use a spreadsheet or budgeting app? There’s no universally “best” option – it depends on your needs and preferences.
Here are a few things to consider when deciding:
- Excel skills: Are you an Excel whiz who wants complex formulas? Spreadsheets will be up your alley. Apps tend to do the math for you.
- Hands-on involvement: Spreadsheets require you to manually enter and update all data. Apps automate the tracking.
- Tech-savviness: Apps are the way to go if you want everything digital. Spreadsheets work great on paper too.
- Cost: Most apps have free versions, but may charge for premium features. Spreadsheets are 100% free if you already own the software.
- Sharing with others: Apps make it easy to share budgets between couples. Spreadsheets can work for this too but take more setup.
- Big picture vs. details: Apps are better for seeing the big budget picture. Spreadsheets allow nitty gritty tracking of every sub-category.
Spreadsheet and App Tips
Whichever route you go, here are some tips for budgeting success:
- Connect accounts to automatically pull in transactions if possible. This saves tons of time.
- Start simple with high-level categories, then add details later if needed. Overcomplicating is a common mistake.
- Use formulas in spreadsheets to calculate sums, percentages, etc automatically.
- Set reminders to update your budget regularly. Budgets get outdated quickly.
- Involve your partner if you share finances. Make sure you’re both onboard with the tool.
- Review spending vs budget frequently. Adjust categories as needed based on real spending habits.
- Use phone apps in addition to web tools. This makes it easy to enter expenses on the go.
- Consider add-ons like browser extensions to capture expenses automatically. This streamlines the process.
- Be patient – adopting a new budgeting method takes time! Stick with it and you’ll get more comfortable.
The Bottom Line
Picking the right budgeting tool can streamline your finances and help you take control of your money. Spreadsheets and budgeting apps both have their pros and cons, so choose the one that fits your needs and preferences.
The most important thing is that you have a system in place you’ll actually use! So whether you go low-tech with a simple spreadsheet or leverage a fancy app, be sure to keep budgeting a regular habit. Consistency is key to making any budgeting method work.
What has your experience been with budgeting tools and methods? Share your thoughts and advice in the comments!