skip to main content

Household Finances

Budget App or Website?

8 years ago

Does anybody use a budget app or website to help them organize their finances. If so, what is it and what do you like about it?

Featured Answer

Elmer J Fudd

8 years ago

last modified: 8 years ago

That's a different problem, you didn't mention that. That problem sounds like it's caused by the institution, not Quicken

I faced what may be be a similar issue, a financial institution I used decided mid last year to institute a two-step sign-on that prevented using the Quicken multi-account download procedure. I called them, got a nonsensical response that it was to protect me (no, it protected them), and suggesting I could get the same information from the website manually in a QIF download. I said sorry, that's inconvenient for me, the account has regular transactions and I don't want to have to bird-dog it.

I came up with an easy work around. I closed the account and transferred the assets to a competitor that fully supports Quicken. I sent them a message before closing the accounts to let them know why they lost my business. I got an apologetic response but the problem remained. Life is too short to waste time with companies that want to move the clock backwards. .

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (7)

Elmer J Fudd
8 years ago
A basic but very functional budgeting and spending tool is Mint. It uses an integrated web and smartphone app approach. A step up in sophistication and capability would be to use the program Quicken, a PC (Mac or Win) program also with mobile apps. Quicken isn't free, a copy that will work for 3 years (with automated bank and financial account downloads) costs $40 or $60, depending on what version offers the capabilities you need. Both have optional bill paying features but it's not necessary to use it. Both offer budgeting and tracking of actual spending. Both systems are owned by the same company - Intuit.

What will work for you depends on how complicated your situation is and how much time (for maintenance and analysis) you want to spend.

I've been a Quicken user for 10 years and used a different program before that. I spend 10 minutes a week or less keeping it maintained - most of the information in it downloads in one step from all my financial accounts. Whether at tax return time or at other times when questions arise (when was the plumber last here, when did we take the dog to the vet, etc), useful information is immediately available.
User
8 years ago
One thing I do not like about several of the programs is that they assume that everyone is working. You must add categories for usual retirement income etc. Not a major deal breaker but still a pain.
Related Discussions
Decorating apps/websites to help with design?
Q
Comments (2)
Adding to the question and bumping it up. I notice a few people here using Sketchup. I went to their site, but didn't spend a lot of time on the tutorials. Is it only useful if you buy the paid version? The free version looks like it's designed as graphics for kids. Is the learning curve steep?
...See More
Simple website or app for drawing floorplans?
Q
Comments (9)
Well Lindsy, considering even the simplest CAD program has a learning curve, for what the OP was asking, graph paper or tracing paper does work faster and better. I've tried just about all the programs, and I know I get frustrated quickly with them and found that when trying out ideas for my draftsman, it was easier to print out his CAD drawing and use tracing paper on top to make my changes. I could try out lots of ideas, one on top of the other and then easily combine ideas if I needed to. Once I did that, I was able to refine it in Photoshop, but then again I've been using Photoshop for over 15 years now. I had to do that because I wasn't working with a person of design talent. My draftsman only knew how to copy what I showed in Photoshop onto his CAD program and even then, when I showed him with redlines he still screwed it up. LOL.
...See More
free website or app to design floor plans?
Q
Comments (1)
Graph paper and pencil are your best option.
...See More
Is there a free app or website to visualize a pool in your yard?
Q
Comments (5)
We use a design program from Structure Studios. Pool Studio is one of their programs which can generate plan view, 3D and a "fly through" renderings. You could call them and ask if their is someone in your area who has purchased their product. Perhaps a local designer can help you out. https://www.structurestudios.com/software/3d-swimming-pool-design-software?campaignmsclkidutm_sourceutm_mediumutm_campaignutm_termutm_content
...See More
Elmer J Fudd
8 years ago
Quicken assumes nothing, maifleur. You configure it as you wish when you set up at first and then add new items or categories as they come along. It takes just a moment to do.

I think that kind of flexibility is desirable, don't you? I wouldn't use any such program that makes me ignore my own specific facts and preferences because someone decided to only offering a "one shoe fits all" approach.
User
8 years ago
I have the 2016 version and some of the things I could do on earlier versions I have not been able to figure out. Tried to enter investments from a system that will not allow direct download to any of the systems only Excel. Have not found a workaround to enter. I gave up late Dec and need to try again.
User
8 years ago
Can not close account right now so that is out. The Quicken problem is I can not manually enter the account. Will work on it this week to hopefully find a method.
Elmer J Fudd
8 years ago
Try calling Quicken tech support. I've contacted them a few times over the years, I found them to be knowledgeable. It could be you have a problem with no solution, please report back on the outcome. Good luck.

Related Stories

INSIDE HOUZZ Inside Houzz: Explore the Houzz App’s New Features and Cleaner Look

Update your Houzz app for iPhone®, iPad® and iPod touch® to get more of what you love

REMODELING GUIDES Breakthrough Budgeting Info: The Houzz Real Cost Finder Is Here

Get remodeling and product prices by project and U.S. city, with our easy-to-use interactive tool

DECORATING GUIDES Budget Decorator: How to Save When You Don’t DIY

By Laura Gaskill

You don’t have to be crafty to decorate your home inexpensively. Here are other ways to stretch your design dollars

REMODELING GUIDES What to Know About Budgeting for Your Home Remodel

By Incite Design

Plan early and be realistic to pull off a home construction project smoothly

MOST POPULAR 8 Budget-Friendly Ways to Fun Up Your Patio

By Karen Egly-Thompson

Amp up the charm, comfort and personality of your outdoor space with drapery, lighting and more

DECORATING PROJECTS Fill a Blank Wall on a Beer Budget

By Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer

Tap your fabric bin, photo box or any kid for art that’s easy, personal and hecka cheap

HOME TECH Now Playing in Homes Everywhere: TV, the App

It's easier than ever to beam streaming content from mobile devices to your TV screen

DECORATING GUIDES Make Your Fixer-Upper Fabulous on a Budget

By Laura Gaskill

So many makeover projects, so little time and money. Here's where to focus your home improvement efforts for the best results

WORKING WITH PROS How to Find Your Renovation Team

By Erin Carlyle

Take the first steps toward making your remodeling dreams a reality with this guide

MOST POPULAR How to Refine Your Renovation Vision to Fit Your Budget

By Erin Carlyle

From dream to done: When planning a remodel that you can afford, expect to review, revise and repeat

Sponsored

Remodel Repair Construction

9 Reviews

Industry Leading General Contractors in Westerville

More Discussions

Question about c.d.'s

1