Thrifty Thursday: Online Budgeting
I don't know about you, but I am a fabulous spender! I see something I just HAVE to have and whip out my card and voilá, it's mine!
Then I sit and wonder where in the world all my money has gone. I haven't bought THAT many things...it was on stuff I really needed, like food and fuel...right?
Wonder no more!
The gift of living in a technological world is we can now keep track of everything online, and more importantly, from our phones!
A simple Google search for "Top Budgeting Apps" brings up a huge list of informative links that I suggest you check out. There are so many amazing apps out there and if you take the time to look at the links, more informed people than I have categorized and summerized their functions. By looking at what's out there you can find what works for you in your particular financial situation. Pretty awesome!
Why budget?
Budgeting our money (and actively tracking it) allows us to have control of our finances and not the other way around. Studies have shown that when we are mindfully doing something it is less likely to get out of control. I find that because I can check my budget on my phone, I plan my spending better. I think more consienciously of my needs and wants-what is imperitive and what can wait.
One of the most well known budgeting tools out there is Mint. We used this for about 5 years-some months more actively than others-and when we did it was very beneficial! Pros: All accounts (debt, banks, credit cards, etc) can link to it to better track spending, you can set your categories, and you can look at past months to see trends and actual spending. Cons: Can't plan the next month's budget, items aren't always categorized correctly, a little too complicated sometimes.
Because of these cons, we decided to try a new app, and who better to try than the new EveryDollar Budget app from none other than financial expert Dave Ramsey?! Many people have found success following his advice and books such as The Total Money Makeover, The Total Money Makeover Workbook, and Smart Money Smart Kids. EveryDollar is fairly basic, but that's something I really like about it. The site and phone app are both easy to navigate and it is visually appealing (which is just fun). One of the biggest pros for us is that you can plan your budget for future months! I LOVE this feature. I also love that you can easily see what you have budgeted, spent, and remaining to help you stay on track.
You don't have to wait for the New Year (or even a new month) to start budgeting. Now is the perfect time! Since we are already at the end of Octobor, plan your Novemeber budget and start off running! :D
Online Site:
iPhone App:
What has helped you to save and stay on budget? I'd love hear your ideas and experiences!
~Madeline~
