Remember the days where savings meant stashing spare change in envelopes and piggy banks? Now that our finances are a bit more formal - and digital, it can be hard to track how much we spend, what we spend the most on, and what we spend that isn't necessary. That's why mobile budgeting and finance apps can really come in handy! Saving up for something big? Trying to cut back on specialty coffee? Have you spent too much on online shopping? Sounds like you might benefit from one of these apps.
Not sure where to start? No need to worry, we've gathered our top picks for the best budgeting apps available. Check them out and decide which will best meet your financial needs!
Mint by Intuit
Best For: Budgeting, Tracking Debt, Savings
Simply put, Mint is the most popular of all web-based budget applications. It's free-to-use, includes free credit score updates, and lets you see your overall accrued debt (loans, credit cards, etc.) all in one place through easily digestible graphs and charts. Want to set savings goals for yourself? You can do that, too! Not only that, but it's known for being extremely user-friendly and easy to learn. If you're new to budgeting and need a quick and simple solution, this is for you!
You Need a Budget
Best For: Organization, Strict Budgeting Rules, Goal Tracking
If you know your way around budgeting, need a strict set of rules or guidelines to keep you in check, and are not bothered by paying for an app, you're just the right fit for You Need A Budget (YNAB). From accountability challenges with other users, to income-based budgeting and goals, this app might not be user-friendly but it definitely works!
Pocket Guard
Best For: Avoiding Overspending, Tracking on a Spending Basis, Bills
Last but not least, if you're prone to clicking "add to cart" even when your wallet says "no," Pocket Guard will be your best friend. While this app is also a "pay-to-play" resource so to speak, its features are arguably worth the small cost. Unlike other budgeting apps, Pocket Guard allows you to track your individual spending, as opposed to looking at your overall spending for a certain month-long period. Plus, this app specifically has a feature to track recurring bills and point out ways to save money! Ka-ching!
Now that you're ready to take your budgeting skills to the next level, don't forget to stay in-the-know regarding your finances every day. This can be done easily with Mobile or Online Banking programs at your financial institution. Take your accounts with you and access them anywhere!
To learn more about Online Banking at Coosa Valley Credit Union, visit: https://www.mycvcu.org/e-services-info