Updated 10/2025
Budgeting is one of the many tools available in the financial stability toolbox. However, it’s only useful if handled properly. Unfortunately, many Americans neglect to use this tool to its fullest capabilities. According to a 2024 survey by Clever, 43% of respondents have never used budgeting apps or tools to track their spending. About 18% of people fail to track their spending at all.
Staying on top of your money can feel like a full-time job, but the right budgeting app can make it much easier to see where your dollars are going and help you stay on track with your financial goals.
Whether you’re new to budgeting apps or you’re looking for replacements with the shutting down of Mint and Moneyhub, here’s an updated list of seven highly rated budgeting apps to help you take charge of your finances this year.
1. YNAB (You Need a Budget)
YNAB, formerly You Need A Budget, remains a favorite for people who like zero-based budgeting. YNAB encourages you to give every dollar a job so you always know what you have to spend and what’s already allocated for bills, savings or debt.
Its simple layout and educational tools make it great for beginners and seasoned budgeters alike. Many users appreciate how YNAB helps them break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle and plan ahead.
Pros
- Proven zero-based budgeting method
- Excellent educational content and community support
- Strong goal-setting and forecasting features
- Syncs with multiple accounts and devices securely
Cons
- Monthly or annual fee (no free version beyond trial)
- Learning curve for new budgeters unfamiliar with zero-based budgeting
2. PocketGuard
If you want a straightforward budgeting app that shows you exactly how much you have “in your pocket” after paying bills and essentials, PocketGuard is worth considering. This app connects to your bank accounts, tracks your spending and helps you identify where you can cut back.
PocketGuard is particularly useful for anyone working on paying down debt or cutting unnecessary expenses.
Pros
- Simple, easy-to-understand “in your pocket” number
- Good for tracking everyday spending and finding ways to cut back
- Offers automated insights on subscriptions and bills
- Free version covers basic needs
Cons
- Some advanced features require a paid upgrade
- Less customizable than some other budgeting apps
3. Goodbudget
Goodbudget is an excellent choice for people who prefer the envelope budgeting method. This app lets you set up digital envelopes for different spending categories, helping you plan how much to spend on groceries, entertainment or gas each month.
Goodbudget is popular among couples and families who want to share a budget and stay on the same page financially.
Pros
- Digital envelope system is great for families and couples
- Can share budgets across devices with a partner
- Free version works well for simple budgeting
- Manual transaction entry helps users stay mindful of spending
Cons
- No automatic bank syncing in the free version
- Transactions must be added manually
- May feel outdated for people who prefer fully automated tools
4. Monarch Money
A newer standout in the budgeting world, Monarch Money has gained praise for its clean design and highly customizable features. It supports joint household budgeting, tracks your net worth, and gives you the flexibility to create your own spending categories.
If you want a modern, all-in-one money management tool that’s easy to use and works well for multiple people, Monarch Money is worth a look.
Pros
- Highly customizable budgeting categories
- Joint budgeting is easy for households
- Tracks net worth and all accounts in one dashboard
- Strong design and user experience
Cons
- Monthly subscription required after trial
- No free forever tier. All features behind paywall
5. Empower Personal Dashboard
Formerly known as Personal Capital, Empower Personal Dashboard remains a top pick for people who want to see their budget and investments in one place. In addition to tracking your income and spending, Empower lets you monitor your retirement accounts, credit cards and net worth.
Empower Personal Dashboard is a good option for people who want to manage day-to-day spending while keeping an eye on long-term goals.
Pros
- Free tool with robust investment and net worth tracking
- Clear visuals for spending trends and cash flow
- Good for long-term financial planning and retirement tracking
- Securely connects to many financial accounts
Cons
- Focus is split between budgeting and investments
- Can feel complex for someone who only wants a simple budget tool
- Some users report too many prompts for advisory services
6. Snoop
Snoop is a relatively new app that started in the UK and has been growing in popularity in the U.S. It connects to your accounts, monitors your bills and flags ways to save money. Snoop’s smart insights can help you spot trends in your spending and find subscriptions or fees you may have forgotten about.
If you want to squeeze more savings out of your budget, Snoop is worth checking out.
Pros
- Smart AI-powered insights to spot savings opportunities
- Monitors bills and highlights better deals
- Good for catching hidden subscriptions
- Easy-to-read daily spending summaries
Cons
- Newer in the U.S., fewer integrations than some bigger apps
- Some features may require a premium version depending on region
7. EveryDollar
With the popular Mint app shutting down, EveryDollar has stepped up as a strong replacement for anyone who liked Mint’s simplicity and focus on planning. Developed by Dave Ramsey’s team, EveryDollar uses a zero-based budgeting method, which means you plan where every dollar goes before the month begins.
The free version works well for basic budgeting, and you can upgrade for bank syncs and additional features.
Pros
- Straightforward zero-based budgeting method
- Free version works well for manual budgeters
- Easy to use and clean interface
- Good replacement for Mint fans who want a similar experience
Cons
- Bank account syncing only available with paid version
- May feel limited for people wanting advanced features or investments view
Take Control of Your Budget With AZCCU
No matter which budgeting app or tool you choose, pairing it with the financial resources, secure online services and mobile banking available through Arizona Central Credit Union, you can make the most of your money. From managing your accounts to tracking your savings and paying bills on time, you have everything you need to build a budget that works for you.
If you have any questions, contact AZCCU online or call (866) 264-6421 to learn how we can help you work toward better budgeting.
