Why are we talking about budget apps on a Christmas countdown? It’s because you probably had one of these two thoughts last year: “I’m SO glad I saved money and didn’t go into debt,” or “Man, I really need to plan better next year!” Even if you had the Best Christmas EVER there are always things we can improve, do better or not to at all. I know for me, I can definitely do better in the planning and budgeting areas, so here we are! I’m sharing my top 3 Favorite Budget Apps to see if we can get motivated to really stay on top of our budgeting this holiday season!

Top 3 Favorite Budget Apps

Dave Ramsey’s Every Dollar

This budget app has been such a game changer for me personally! My hubby and I went through Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. We went from “fighting about money and never having savings” to using a budget and talking about money (not fighting!) Don’t get me wrong, we still have our disagreements! We are definitely a work in progress in this area. But having this tool has helped us immensely.

Mint

My sister Emille (@EmilleEnchanted) shared this one with me because it’s worked out GREAT for her! She’s a better saver than I am, so I’m listening to my younger sister on this one and checking it out. I haven’t played on Mint enough yet, but I started looking around and I’m impressed by some of the bells and whistles (you can connect a lot of accounts and manage it all in one place.) I’m not a fan of the cons (like they suggest credit card offers, which are a NO NO in Dave Ramsey’s book!)

YNAB (You Need a Budget)

Shout out to my friend and financial coach, Alexis from Cistern & Grove for this one! She mentioned “YNAB” on her social media (or maybe it was on her new podcast!) I had to check it out and I’m so glad I did! YNAB shared something on their podcast that made me rethink my spender/free spirit ways! They talked about “aging money.” As in “let your money age” and don’t spend “baby dollars” that just came into your account. Let them sit there and mature. So when you buy that iced mocha, it’s not with baby dollars (which I do All The Time.) YNAB recommended aging money a minimum of 30 to 60 days (or longer!) In other words, SAVE for 1-2 months before you spend. WHAT A CONCEPT! I’m serious — I heard that podcast episode on repeat because it helped me realize how bad I am at spending ALL my baby dollars! LOL! Time to let those babies GROW! (Especially when it means we’re saving for a little extra Christmas fun!)

Do you have a favorite budget app? Share it in the comments below!

Laughing (and budgeting) thru life,

Coppelia