Great tool for implementing a zero-based budgeting system (also known as an “envelope system”), meaning every dollar of income is assigned to an expense category. Categories can (and should) include annual or longer-term expenses, so that you have cash on hand when foreseeable future expenses crop up. The system as a whole is great for giving you confidence in your spending choices, as well as helping you stay on track when you overspend. I find this type of budgeting ideal, though some may find it a little too demanding.
I personally still use an older, spreadsheet-based version of the YNAB system, mainly because it’s what I’m accustomed to. So I can’t vouch with certainty for their current software. But it does have a free trial!
If you already have a great budgeting system in place, you may not find this useful. But if your budgeting system doesn’t work so well, or if you don’t currently budget—you need a budget!
YNAB (You Need A Budget)
Great tool for implementing a zero-based budgeting system (also known as an “envelope system”), meaning every dollar of income is assigned to an expense category. Categories can (and should) include annual or longer-term expenses, so that you have cash on hand when foreseeable future expenses crop up. The system as a whole is great for giving you confidence in your spending choices, as well as helping you stay on track when you overspend. I find this type of budgeting ideal, though some may find it a little too demanding.
I personally still use an older, spreadsheet-based version of the YNAB system, mainly because it’s what I’m accustomed to. So I can’t vouch with certainty for their current software. But it does have a free trial!
If you already have a great budgeting system in place, you may not find this useful. But if your budgeting system doesn’t work so well, or if you don’t currently budget—you need a budget!