best budget software?

[inkedmamajama]

i am desperate to get our finances in order-we are always behind, nothing is organized and if i can at least have some sort of organization, then we may not have more money-but at least i can try to pay bills somewhat on time.

any recommendations for free or even not free budgeting software?


a

[MidnightCommando]

We use and really like You Need A Budget. There is a $25 and $45 version - totally worth it

[sanguine_speed]

We really like DIY with spreadsheet software.

[SeekingJoy]

www.yodlee.com

www.mint.com

www.wesabe.com

www.quicken.com

nak

[inkedmamajama]

mint looks interesting but it seems it wont log things unless its marked in my checking account-like i wishdraw money to pay bills-so it doesnt log it-so that may not be for me-

keep the recommendations coming! im checking them all out.

[sunnysandiegan]

We use Quicken and download our finances from our credit union's website directly into Quicken. I create a budget and then have the tracking window open, so I can see how we're doing on the areas of concern for us (4 line items) each time I open the program. Quicken will use your history to create a budget for you, too. Actually, Quicken will do a LOT... I run reports quarterly and track our important accounts weekly and reconcile statements/accounts monthly. I spend about 15-30 minutes weekly on finances.

FYI, just paying your bills on time will save you money by eliminating late fees and extra interest charges (on those types of accounts).

[mamabain]

i use mint.com and you can go in and do a split to put the cash you took out into the correct categories.

it works well for us.

for example, we are doing gas and groceries cash only, plus our 'mad money' allowances. so i take out the lump sum in cash then go into mint and categorize it.

i like mint because it gives you heads up emails everytime you go over budget in a category. it also reminds you when bills are due.

it has helped us to see what we spend exactly and how we can cut back.

AND IT IS FREE!!!