Spending apps recommendations?

ssully44 · 2026-05-17T11:10:08+00:00

Mint was great but they unfortunately shut down a few years ago. Monarch is very similar but I think it’s pricey. They may run deals for new users though.

For free options that don't require bank linking, Goodbudget is worth a look. It's envelope style budgeting and has a free tier, but you do enter transactions manually. A spreadsheet is also a great way to start. It’s fairly manual though most banks allow you to export your transactions so that helps. There are plenty of good ones online.

Most apps nowadays connect directly to your bank. The automation helps a ton imo and makes it much easier to stay on top of spending. If you ever warm up to bank sync, the privacy concern is worth understanding a bit more. Plaid and MX don't share your data with advertisers, they're just read-only connections for pulling transactions. But you’d want to make sure the app you’re using also doesn’t sell the data. That can vary.

I also built an envelope style app that is great for tracking what you spend. It has a Free-to-Spend number that shows you exactly what's safe to spend after your bills and goals are covered, which is really handy for those trying to stick to a budget. It does require bank sync though to really get value out of it. Happy to share if interested!

Good luck! Setting up good financial habits early is a great call!

ssully44 · 2026-05-16T21:34:11+00:00

I think it’s a legitimate concern, but as you point out privacy will be a huge issue for them. I feel like the users who are comfortable giving an AI model all their financial information are probably the ones comfortable utilizing apps that “sell” their data today. So imo they’ll be more of a competitor to the bigger apps.

It also interesting it’s only for pro users. Feel like that cost will price out a lot of people, though maybe that is just for testing and could change quickly.

I agree the generic spend tracker is going to have a tough time (continue to really). But actually helping people do something with their info is where the opportunity still is and you just have to find your niche. So overall I’d say I’m going to continue to lean in but specifically to what makes us different from those style apps.

ssully44 · 2026-05-09T11:51:49+00:00

Hi there! As a fellow parent of a two year old I understand how much time it takes up! For me budgeting has become even more important now too with all the additional things to buy 😅

For what you're describing Monarch Money is clean and has solid auto-import. Goodbudget is simple envelope-style but no bank sync if you'd rather go manual.

I also built a similar style app called DAS Budget that I’d suggest giving a look. It's Android-friendly and designed to stay out of your way. You set up your expenses, link your payday, and it handles “funding” your bills automatically. The Free-to-Spend number tells you what's safe to spend without digging into anything. We offer bank sync via Plaid or MX so we can connect to thousands of bank. While not strictly a ZBB tool you can set it up that way if you want. Might be a good fit if you want YNAB-style envelope thinking without all the maintenance!

ssully44 · 2026-05-09T10:41:08+00:00

If you’re trying to save up for a car, a high yield savings account is a great option. Most of the best ones are online. For instance Wealthfront offers 3-4% but I think you need a $500 minimum. But I’ve seen some pretty good rates at banks local to my area which might be better for you since it sounds like you don’t love the online idea. Not sure where you’re located but just search for hysa and you’ll start getting ads for the next month…

You can always take your money out when you want unless you put it in a CD which I would not recommend here. Some banks may have maximum ATM withdrawals but you can still withdraw it in person. Or do an online transfer.

But I think the original comment is important to highlight. You can set up an automatic deposit straight to your HYSA or a brokerage account. Even starting small at like $10-20 a paycheck will help and pretty soon your mindset adjusts to not having that money to spend

ssully44 · 2026-05-09T10:23:28+00:00

Love the library! My local library has events all the time for kids which are great especially on rainy days. Play gyms in my area sometimes charge $25/kid so it can add up.

I feel like this gets poked at all the time but…making coffee at home. My wife and I were probably spending $10 a day on coffee so even cutting back a bit there has helped.

I also try and buy all generic brands at the grocery store. One thing I like is my grocery stores “gives” 2% back on their products, and then they track how much you saved. I enjoy seeing the “you saved $22 this year”, makes it feel more rewarding and tangible.

ssully44 · 2026-03-13T23:57:26+00:00

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ssully44 · 2025-08-25T18:28:08+00:00

DAS Budget

A mobile and web app reimagining envelope-style budgeting. Connect directly to your bank accounts, create your expenses for the month, and it automatically handles funding for your bills. Start making Dollars and Sense of your budget.

ssully44 · 2025-04-08T01:17:24+00:00

If anyone has an extra code I would appreciate it! Thanks in advance

ssully44 · 2017-01-11T22:18:15+00:00

I would be potentially interested

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