WITH PAYDAY SOON to arrive (hurrah!), the temptation to spend it all after what is usually a stringent month is pretty high.
Yet, how many of us take the time to plan where our money is going and what we want to get out of it? A little preparation can go a long way and even if you’re not able to reduce your spending that much, the difference will add up over time.
You could use an excel spreadsheet to put one together but since that takes time and effort, it’s likely handier to go for one of the many services and apps out there instead.
You Need a Budget
For: PC, Mac, iOS, Android
Cost: €49.99
The most expensive one on the list and for good reason. You Need a Budget is both comprehensive and accessible for all users and will help identify areas that you need to improve on.
The iOS and Android app are only to accompany the main desktop version so you can keep track of your budget while you’re on the move.
BUDGT
For: iOS
Cost: €1.99
For those looking for a cheaper alternative, BUDGT is a great lightweight alternative that becomes more useful the more you use it. Colourful, clean and easy to understand, it’s perfect for those who just want a straightforward service.
Goodbudget
For: iOS, Android
Cost: Free
For those who want something a little easier to manage, and not have to pay for the privilege, Goodbudget is useful if you’re sharing a budget with someone else.
Transactions and additions are synced on the web, and over time, it will fire you over reports showing you where exactly your money is going.
There is a subscription service which costs €14.99 for three months and €23.99 for six months.
myMoneyBook
For: Windows Phone
Cost: €2.99
Following the same Metro format that most WP apps share, myMoneyBook allows you to customise categories, in case you have expenses that fall outside the traditional groups, and displays all your expenses in a day-by-day format, allowing you to see if you’ve stuck to your monthly budget.
If you want to test it out before you part with your cash, just remember that the trial run is limited to 10 transactions.
Spendee
For: iOS, Android
Cost: €1.99 (iOS) Free (Android)
One of the prettier budgeting apps out there, Spendee is all about visualisation. Easy to use, clear display and a great interface allows you to graph daily, monthly, quarterly or yearly spending.
The only problem is that it doesn’t allow for multiple accounts to be registered which takes a bit of the sheen off it.
Toshl Finance
For: iOS, Android, Windows Phone
Cost: Free (€1.99p/m or €19.99 for year subscription)
With the emphasis on fun, Toshi allows you to track expenses and set them in advance. Easy to use, quick to zip through and also including a currency converter should you travel often, it’s surprisingly diverse for a budget app.
Expense Manager
For: Android
Cost: Free
If you just want a no-fuss app that does what it sets out to do, Expense Manager is a handy service to use. Simple, to the point and easy to follow, the app brings a little colour to your budget.
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