Top Ten Budget Software Decide What Works Best For You
Top Ten Budget Software-Decide What Works Best For You If you were to ask several people what they though were the top 10 budget software programs you would get several different answers. Everyone has their own reasons for using money management programs and I could name a few of the most popular ones but it is ultimately up to you to decide which one works the best for you. Some of the top 10 budget software programs are free and some are paid. All have pretty much the same features although some may have more features than others just be careful to not over buy. Some are just spreadsheets that you can list all of your income and debts and monthly expenses and some will let you link to your checking account so you can keep a running total and pay your bills. Once you have a clear picture of where all of your money is going you can tighten your belt as you see fit and maybe make some changes and start saving or investing for your future. Let's talk a minute on how the average person spends their money. Housing is the biggest expense most people have. This includes everything from the house or apartment you live in, the utilities and supplies needed to make it run, and the furnishings you put in it. Transportation is the next largest expense and this includes buying the car, keeping it full of gas, and having money to pay for maintenance. Transportation costs could also mean paying to use public transportation although this amount would not even come close to buying and paying for the upkeep of your own car. Grocery expense is next. This includes food and personal items you buy at the store as well. You can also include food purchases at restaurants when you go out although sometimes this can be in your entertainment section of the budget as well. Healthcare, insurance premiums and pensions come next. If these are payroll deductions you may rarely even think of them because they come directly out of your check but they account for approximately 16.5% of your income. Entertainment comes in next and includes going out to the movies, seeing your favorite band in concert, or going to the game every now and then. Like I said this can also include going out to eat as well. Everyone has to wear clothes and shoes so we will add it here. Enter this into the area for your clothing budget on your spreadsheet. Now not everyone buys clothing or shoes every month so just do a rough estimate in this category. Charitable donations, education, (including tuition, books and supplies) and miscellaneous end this list. Miscellaneous could include expenses regarding any pets you might have. They need to eat and drink and play. They may not need a lot but the expenses they have are ongoing throughout their lives. So if you are honest with yourself about where your money is going you can use one of the top ten budget software to help get things straight and keep things running smoothy.