Budgeting and expense tracking software

fifthofwhisky

I'm looking for some software that can be used to manage a household budget, track expenses, etc. Ideally it would be able to import data from the Excel files I'm using at the moment. Mainly it would be used on a desktop (so mobile is not strictly necessary). Any suggestions please?

blue.peter

What operating system are you using? If Windows, you might try Microsoft Money. This is now free.

For Windows or MacOS, AceMoney is good (but not free). The Windows version also works happily with Linux + Wine - I have it loaded that way on the computer I'm using to write this.

fifthofwhisky

blue.peter wrote: »

What operating system are you using? If Windows, you might try Microsoft Money. This is now free.

For Windows or MacOS, AceMoney is good (but not free). The Windows version also works happily with Linux + Wine - I have it loaded that way on the computer I'm using to write this.

I am using Windows and so will look at Microsoft Money, thank you!

allinatizz

We use YNAB (You Need A Budget). It's not cheap, but you get a 34 day free trial and a free month after subscribing if you use a referral link. It's cloud based, and has an app that syncs beautifully for inputting transactions on the go.

It's been a total lifesaver for us. It's based on the zero based budgeting system where you put all the funds you have in virtual envelopes and assign them to particular categories. While it can take a little bit to get your head around it, there is tonnes of information online and their support is excellent.

I tried Yolt/Emma/Money Dashboard/Moneyhub etc, but they all focus on retrospectively monitoring your spending rather than proactively budgeting your money beforehand.

cloud_dog

GNUCash is another free product. Offers a Windows and Android app for interest.

cloud_dog

fifthofwhisky wrote: »

I am using Windows and so will look at Microsoft Money, thank you!

I have a copy/download of the last available UK version, let me know if you want the link. The Sunset version (more readily available) on the interweb is the last available version but it is the Americanised version.

fifthofwhisky

cloud_dog wrote: »

I have a copy/download of the last available UK version, let me know if you want the link. The Sunset version (more readily available) on the interweb is the last available version but it is the Americanised version.

That is very kind of you, thanks. The UK version would be preferable.

cloud_dog

I've sent you the link via PM, although I think I may well have posted it on this forum in a previous thread.