Best Budgeting Tools and Software
Whether you’re managing a tight monthly budget, saving for a big goal, or running a side hustle, the right budgeting tools and software can make a huge difference. These platforms help you track spending, plan ahead, and stay organized—giving you full control over your money.
Here’s a comprehensive list of the best budgeting tools and software, including their key features and who they’re best suited for.
1. YNAB (You Need A Budget)
Best for: Zero-based budgeting and intentional money planning
Features:
- Assigns every dollar a job
- Real-time syncing with bank accounts
- Goal tracking and reports
- Ideal for variable incomes and long-term savings plans
✅ $14.99/month or $99/year (34-day free trial)
📱 iOS, Android, Web
2. Mint (by Intuit)
Best for: Free all-in-one budgeting and tracking
Features:
- Syncs with bank, credit, and loan accounts
- Auto-categorizes transactions
- Budgeting, bill reminders, and credit score monitoring
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
✅ Free
📱 iOS, Android, Web
3. Empower (formerly Personal Capital)
Best for: Combining budgeting with investment and net worth tracking
Features:
- Budget tracker, cash flow dashboard, and net worth calculator
- Monitors retirement and investment accounts
- Long-term planning tools and fee analyzer
- Excellent for holistic financial management
✅ Free
📱 iOS, Android, Web
4. Simplifi by Quicken
Best for: Clean, real-time financial planning
Features:
- Tracks income, expenses, and goals in real time
- Offers detailed spending plans and forecasts
- Clean, customizable dashboards
- Ideal for goal setters and visual budgeters
✅ $4/month (billed annually)
📱 iOS, Android, Web
5. Tiller Money
Best for: Spreadsheet lovers who want automation
Features:
- Links to Google Sheets or Excel
- Auto-imports transactions and account balances
- Customizable budgeting and net worth templates
- Great for detail-oriented and DIY users
✅ $79/year (30-day free trial)
📱 Web (Google Sheets & Excel)
6. Goodbudget
Best for: Envelope-style budgeting (manual control)
Features:
- Digital envelope system for saving and spending
- Manual transaction entry builds awareness
- Syncs across devices for shared budgeting
- Great for cash-based or low-tech budgeting
✅ Free basic plan; $8/month for premium
📱 iOS, Android, Web
7. Monarch Money
Best for: Comprehensive household budgeting and planning
Features:
- Budgeting, goal setting, and investment tracking
- Real-time sync across all accounts
- Shared access for couples or advisors
- Long-term cash flow projections and customizable categories
✅ $14.99/month or $99/year (7-day free trial)
📱 iOS, Android, Web
8. PocketGuard
Best for: Real-time spending limits and savings tips
Features:
- “In My Pocket” feature shows how much you can safely spend
- Tracks bills, subscriptions, and recurring expenses
- Helps find savings opportunities
- Good for overspenders who need extra guidance
✅ Free basic plan; PocketGuard Plus available
📱 iOS, Android
9. EveryDollar
Best for: Fans of Dave Ramsey and zero-based budgeting
Features:
- Simple and clean interface
- Create monthly budgets with pre-set categories
- Paid version includes bank sync
- Great for those following the Baby Steps method
✅ Free version available; $17.99/month for Plus
📱 iOS, Android, Web
10. Zeta
Best for: Couples managing shared and personal budgets
Features:
- Joint and individual budgeting features
- Expense tracking, bill reminders, and savings goals
- Great for communication and transparency
- Ideal for couples, roommates, or co-planners
✅ Free
📱 iOS, Android
Final Thoughts
The best budgeting tool depends on your income style, goals, and preferred level of involvement. If you love hands-on planning, try YNAB or Tiller. For automated, high-level management, go with Empower or Monarch. For simple and free, Mint is a solid start.
Let me know if you’d like a comparison chart, quiz to find your ideal tool, or a personalized recommendation based on your financial situation!