These days, managing personal finances is easier than ever, thanks to money management apps. Many of them are free, and only charge for certain features, so getting started can be as simple as downloading an app to your phone. Most of these apps cover a lot of the same ground, but many also offer unique features for your budgeting, saving, investing, and spending needs. Here’s how they compare, so you can see which one might be the best fit for you.
1. Brigit: the tool to build your credit while budgeting
With Brigit, you can get access to everything you need for total financial wellness, all in one app. In addition to being able to access Instant Cash1 when you need it, a Brigit subscription also includes access to budgeting tools, Credit Builder*, side gigs and discounts, and overdraft protection. Brigit also throws in $1M in identity theft insurance.
2. You Need A Budget (YNAB): The Budgeting Powerhouse
YNAB stands out for its proactive approach to budgeting, the philosophy that every dollar should have a job. The app helps users have total control over their spending and grow their savings by providing a forward-looking view of their finances. YNAB’s method encourages users to budget based on their current balance, aiming to break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle while reducing debt. Its detailed reporting tools and educational resources make it an excellent choice for those looking to adopt a more disciplined approach to their finances.
3. Acorns : Investing Your Spare Change
Acorns is a micro-investing app that makes investing accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial savvy or account balance. By rounding up your everyday purchases to the nearest dollar, Acorns invests the spare change into a diversified portfolio. Users can also set up recurring investments or make one-time deposits to boost their investment account. With portfolios designed by experts, Acorns simplifies the investing process, making it an appealing option for novice investors looking to dip their toes into the world of investing without feeling overwhelmed.
4. PocketGuard : Keeping Overspending at Bay
PocketGuard simplifies budgeting by showing you how much disposable income you have after taking into account your bills, subscriptions, and goals. Its main feature is “In My Pocket”, which helps you understand clearly how much money you have available for daily spending. PocketGuard categorizes transactions, tracks bills, and identifies places you can save by negotiating better rates. If you want to reduce overspending and save more, PocketGuard provides one of the most simple and effective money management apps.
1Subject to Brigit’s approval and policies. Not all members are approved for advances and the amount varies per customer. Advances range from $50 – $250. Log into the Brigit app to learn more. No credit checks or interest, ever. Additional fees may apply if you select Express Delivery rather than Standard Delivery of funds. Instant Cash is not available in all states.
2Impact to score may vary. Some users’ scores may not improve. Results will depend on many factors, including on-time payment history, the status of non-Brigit accounts, and financial history. Results show that customers with a starting credit score of 600 or below were more likely to see positive score change results. A Brigit subscription is required. Credit Builder loans are not available in all states. The Brigit Credit Builder is a service provided by Brigit and its bank partner, Coastal Community Bank, Member FDIC. The Brigit Credit Builder product is separate from the Brigit Instant Cash Advance service. Brigit Credit Builder installment loans are issued by Coastal Community Bank, Member FDIC, subject to approved underwriting practices.
