(1275,1,'2021-04-12 20:35:59','2021-04-12 20:35:59','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<h1 spacing=\"4\" class=\"Heading__HeadingStyled-sc-1w5xk2o-0 bqrWOf Heading-sc-1w5xk2o-1 NJLrK\" size=\"5\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>How to Minimize Social Security Taxes</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Social-security.jpg\" width=\"772\" height=\"519\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1267 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Your Social Security benefit may be taxable. Try these strategies to reduce your tax bill in retirement.</span></p>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div class=\"content-ad-wrap\"><span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-115\"></span></div>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"><span class=\"lede\"><strong>MOST WORKERS PAY INTO</strong> </span>the Social Security program throughout their career. Many people also pay taxes on part of their Social Security payments in retirement.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Is Social Security Income Taxable?</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees with low incomes or whose only source of income is Social Security generally don\'t pay income tax on their <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/frequently-asked-social-security-benefit-questions\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security benefit</a>. The average Social Security payment to retired workers was $1,547 in January 2021, or $18,564 for the year, which is considerably below the taxable threshold of $25,000 for an individual. However, some 40% of Social Security beneficiaries have to pay federal income tax on part of their benefit, according to the Social Security Administration. The income cutoffs for <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/when-you-need-to-pay-taxes-on-social-security\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security taxes</a> are not adjusted for inflation each year, so more retirees will need to pay tax on their Social Security payments over time.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Here\'s how to reduce or avoid taxes on your Social Security benefit:</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleBodyRawList__ListContainer-sc-18hlulv-0 fHKjHB\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Stay below the taxable thresholds.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Manage your other retirement income sources.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Consider taking IRA withdrawals before signing up for Social Security.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Save in a Roth IRA.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Factor in state taxes.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Set up Social Security tax withholding.</span></h4>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">There are a variety of factors that determine whether your Social Security benefit will be taxed in retirement. Consider each of these strategies to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Stay Below the Taxable Thresholds</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security benefits become taxable if the sum of your adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest and half of your Social Security benefit exceeds $25,000 as an individual and $32,000 as a married couple. If these income sources are between $25,000 and $34,000 ($32,000 and $44,000 for couples), income tax will be due on half of your Social Security benefit. Retirees with incomes that top $34,000 ($44,000 for couples) pay income tax on up to 85% of their Social Security benefit.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">However, you will not have to pay tax on your entire Social Security benefit, regardless of your income. \"Many retirees are surprised to find that they have to pay taxes on up to 85% of the Social Security benefits they receive,\" says Dana Anspach, a certified financial planner and CEO of Sensible Money in Scottsdale, Arizona. \"The good news is, no matter what, 15% of the Social Security benefits you receive are tax-free.\"</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\"></div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Manage Your Other Retirement Income Sources</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__FirstInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-0 kYlGEo sm-hide md-hide\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 bwWzQw\" spacing=\"4\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees who have income from another source in addition to Social Security frequently have to pay tax on part of their Social Security benefit. Pension payments, dividends and interest from savings and investments, earnings from a part-time job and withdrawals from traditional 401(k)s and IRAs are sources of retirement income that can contribute to making your Social Security payments taxable.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Consider Taking IRA Withdrawals Before Signing Up for Social Security</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">You have some control over when to take withdrawals from retirement accounts during your 60s, because you can begin taking <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/slideshows/ways-to-avoid-the-ira-early-withdrawal-penalty\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">penalty-free distributions</a> after age 59 1/2 (and in some cases <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/401ks/slideshows/9-ways-to-avoid-401-k-fees-and-penalties\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">age 55</a>), but you aren\'t required to take minimum withdrawals until after age 72. You might be able to reduce your Social Security income tax bill if you withdraw money from your traditional 401(k) or IRA in the years before you sign up for Social Security.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"For many retirees, changing the order they tap their savings to generate income can minimize taxes on Social Security,\" says William Meyer, founder and managing principal of Social Security Solutions, a company that analyzes Social Security claiming strategies. \"Many middle-income retirees should consider withdrawing their IRA account first before starting Social Security. This reduces their IRA account balance by the time required minimum distributions start, and many times the amount of Social Security taxes that typically increase as retirees withdraw more IRA money at the age of 70 and beyond.\"</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Some retirees take a large retirement account distribution in the year before signing up for Social Security, while others take IRA distributions for several years in order to delay claiming Social Security and qualify for higher Social Security payments in the future.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Managing or controlling your income for a particular year means timing withdrawals other than required minimum distributions such that the income for the year is stacked in one year, with the following or preceding year having a lower amount of distribution income,\" says Jim Blankenship, a certified financial planner and founder of Blankenship Financial Planning in New Berlin, Illinois.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">After age 70 1/2, you might be able to avoid paying income tax on your IRA required minimum distribution if you donate it directly to a qualifying charity. \"RMDs could be eliminated or partly eliminated from the tax return by use of qualified charitable distributions,\" Blankenship says. When you <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/iras/articles/how-to-donate-to-charity-from-your-ira\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">donate a required distribution to charity</a>, it is not counted as income and does not contribute to the taxation of your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Save in a Roth IRA</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Distributions from Roth 401(k)s and <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/iras/articles/how-to-open-a-roth-ira\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Roth IRAs</a> after age 59 1/2 from an account that\'s at least five years old are not taxable and don\'t contribute to the taxation of your Social Security benefits. Saving for retirement in an after-tax Roth account sets you up for tax-free withdrawals in retirement, and also allows you to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Money that comes out of Roth IRA accounts does not count in the formula that determines how much of your Social Security is subject to taxation,\" Anspach says. \"By the time you begin Social Security, if you have more money in Roth IRAs and less money in tax-deferred accounts, you will have more flexibility in when you draw money out of what type of account. With planning, you can draw money out in a way that reduces your tax liability over the course of your retirement years.\"</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__SubsequentInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-1 eSZloL sm-hide md-hide\" data-ad-collide=\"true\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 doTocE\" spacing=\"5\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Factor in State Taxes</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Where you live can play a role in whether your Social Security payments will be taxed. Most states don\'t tax Social Security income. However, 13 states tax Social Security income, often with exceptions for low-income retirees, according to data from information services company Wolters Kluwer. The states that tax Social Security income include Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and West Virginia.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Set Up Social Security Tax Withholding</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Those who owe taxes on their Social Security payments can elect to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS or have federal taxes withheld from monthly payments. You can have 7%, 10%, 12% or 22% of your monthly benefit withheld for taxes, but you cannot select a different percentage or a flat dollar amount. Setting up tax withholding is generally more convenient than having to pay a tax bill every quarter.</span></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/how-to-minimize-social-security-taxes\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','How to Minimize Social Security Taxes','','inherit','closed','closed','','1264-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 20:35:59','2021-04-12 20:35:59','',1264,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1264-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1267,1,'2021-04-12 20:26:24','2021-04-12 20:26:24','','Social security','','inherit','open','closed','','social-security','','','2021-04-12 20:26:24','2021-04-12 20:26:24','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Social-security.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1268,1,'2021-04-12 20:26:49','2021-04-12 20:26:49','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<h1 spacing=\"4\" class=\"Heading__HeadingStyled-sc-1w5xk2o-0 bqrWOf Heading-sc-1w5xk2o-1 NJLrK\" size=\"5\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>How to Minimize Social Security Taxes</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Social-security.jpg\" width=\"772\" height=\"519\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1267 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><img src=\"https://cdn-0.smallbiztrends.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/10-Tiny-Pivots-2-850x476.png?ezimgfmt=rs:840x470/rscb7/ng:webp/ngcb7\" alt=\"10 Tiny Pivots\" /></div>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">You don’t always need to make huge changes in your business in order to grow. Sometimes, small pivots can be just as effective. Members of the online small business community understand what it takes to adapt and make incremental changes. Here are some of their top tips for those who want to start small.</span></p>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div class=\"content-ad-wrap\"><span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-115\"></span></div>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Consider a Fractional CFO</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Many small businesses cannot afford or simply do not need a full time CFO. However, having an individual dedicated to your finances can still be useful. That’s where a fractional CFO comes in. In this Acuity post, Matthew May goes over the concept for small businesses.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Conquer Your Video Fears and Get on Camera</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Video marketing can be useful for nearly any business. But many small business owners and teams are afraid to actually face the camera. Pivoting your strategy in this way can pay major dividends. So if you’re ready to face your fears, read this Content Marketing Institute post by Dennis Shiao.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Adapt Your Human Resource Management with Big Data</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">If you have a team for your small business, you need human resource management systems. Big data offers plenty of opportunities for businesses to make these processes more efficient. But you need to understand their role. Sam O’Brien elaborates in this Small Biz Daily post.<span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-149\" class=\"ezoic-adpicker-ad\"></span></span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Change When You Post on Social Media</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">If your social media strategy isn’t as effective as you’d like, you may be posting at the wrong times. In this Blogging Wizard post, Kim Locery details the best times to post on each site. And BizSugar members offered thoughts on the post here.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Adapt to the Instagram Algorithm in 2020</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">If you use Instagram for marketing, you’re no doubt familiar with the algorithm. Though these changes may be frustrating, small businesses have no control over them. So it’s best to accept the changes and pivot your strategy accordingly. Julia Miashkova explains how in this Search Engine Watch post.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Improve Your Email Marketing Campaigns</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">If you’ve run a small business for years, you almost certainly use email marketing. But it’s very possible you haven’t updated your strategy in years. To adapt to today’s customers, check out the tips in this Marketing Land post by Rodric Bradford.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Create Better Content with These Tools</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Tons of businesses already use content marketing with great success. But there are always options for improving content. And there are tools to help you accomplish this. Ivan Widjaya lays out some of them in this Biz Penguin post.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Upgrade Your Web Design</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Web design trends are constantly evolving. So if you want your brand to appear current, you need to upgrade your strategy regularly. In this Smallbiztechnology.com post, James Baier offers some trends that small businesses should know.<span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-151\" class=\"ezoic-adpicker-ad\"></span></span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Let Your Personality Shine</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">For years, many business owners have kept their personal and company brands separate. But your personal brand could actually be an asset to your business. Rachel Strella of Strella Social media goes over how this small pivot can help here. Once you’ve read the post, head over to BizSugar to see even more discussion.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<h3><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Use Advanced SEO Tactics to Drive More Traffic to Your Website</span></h3>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">You probably already use some form of SEO to market your business online. But if you want to get even more traffic, you need to upgrade your tactics. In this UpCity post, Pratik Kothari shares eight advanced strategies to consider.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://smallbiztrends.com/2020/09/10-tiny-pivots-to-make-your-small-business-more-effective.html\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>\n[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','How to Minimize Social Security Taxes','','inherit','closed','closed','','1264-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 20:26:49','2021-04-12 20:26:49','',1264,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1264-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1259,1,'2021-04-02 19:47:01','2021-04-02 19:47:01','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<h1 class=\"ArticleHeader_hed__hCOBy\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>The Hidden Toll of Remote Work</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><img src=\"https://cdn.theatlantic.com/thumbor/NwDBiO7huTTHc0AUZrZF1qgnKm4=/0x0:3000x1688/720x405/https://cdn.theatlantic.com/media/img/mt/2021/03/unnamed-3/original.jpg\" alt=\"A person in the shape of a house works on a desktop computer while puffs of smoke in the shape of frowny faces escape the chimney.\" /></div>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 1\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p class=\"dropcap\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A<span class=\"smallcaps\">t the end</span> of January, I went back to teaching my students in person for the first time in 10 months. It was only two days a week, and an hour and a half at a time. We were all avoiding contact and wearing masks, so normal human interaction was almost nonexistent. But for me, it was like springtime in Paris. I started sleeping better; my mood improved; I became more energetic and optimistic.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Between one-third and one-half of American employees worked in person throughout the pandemic, with or without a say in the matter, and some at great personal risk. Most of the rest of us were forced to work from home, also without necessarily wanting to. And in fact, almost two-thirds of people in a poll last fall felt that the cons of working from home outweighed the pros, and nearly a third said they had considered quitting their jobs since being banned from the workplace. In another poll, about 70 percent said that mixing work and other responsibilities had become a source of stress, and about three in four American workers in the early days of the pandemic confessed to being “burned out.”</span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_rightRail__Dy9gl\"><gpt-ad class=\"GptAd_root__nza6l ArticleRail_root__1oWnZ s-native s-native--standard s-native--small s-native--short-title\" format=\"rrail\" sizes-at-0=\"\" targeting-pos=\"boxrr1\" sizes-at-976=\"rail\"></gpt-ad></div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 2\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">So while some people are understandably nervous about returning to their workplace, many are having an experience more like mine. My friends and colleagues who have returned to a physical office and seen others—even in a limited capacity—have told me that returning made them realize how isolated they had become during the pandemic, and the burden of stress they had been carrying, even if they faced no job threat or major health risk.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Some employers, however, have realized that several of the pandemic’s workarounds are cost-efficient, and are considering making them permanent. There are many corporate leaders who still recognize that, in Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s words, “digital technology should not be a substitute for human connection.” But in what we might call a “Zoom forever” move, many other companies are contemplating radically downsizing traditional office spaces and making remote work permanent for large groups of employees.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The problem is, if millions of people never “go back to work” in a way that resembles the pre-pandemic world, it could have drastic consequences for our well-being. There’s nothing wrong with a partially remote situation—say, work-from-home Fridays or more flexible schedules. But going fully remote forever could exacerbate one of the worst happiness disasters of the pandemic.</span></p>\n<p class=\"dropcap\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">R<span class=\"smallcaps\">emote work</span> does have some happiness benefits, and not just for employers looking to cut office costs. For people living in or near congested cities, for example, commuting is time-consuming and soul-crushing; it is near the top of daily activities that stimulate unhappiness.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">However, aggravation from commuting is no match for the misery of loneliness, which can lead to depression, substance abuse, sedentary behavior, and relationship damage, among other ills. And it is simply undeniable that remote work usually leads to loneliness. In research conducted more than a decade before the pandemic about remote work among journalists, the organizational psychologist Lynn Holdsworth found that full-time telework increased loneliness over office work by 67 percentage points. Based on data from 2019, the 2020 <em>State of Remote Work </em>report issued by the social-media management firm Buffer showed that loneliness is the biggest struggle remote workers say they face, tied with problems of collaboration and communication.</span></p>\n<div data-pos=\"boxinjector-m\" data-template=\"hippo/components/ads/article-mobile.html\" data-native=\"standard,gift\" class=\" ad-boxinjector-m-wrapper\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Work is where many people have the bulk of their social interactions. In a recent survey, 70 percent of employees said friendship at their job is the most important element of a happy work life. Research shows that employees say a co-located office environment is where they establish not just work collaborations but also their social ties.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> </span></p>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 2\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Employers intent on abandoning the physical office might respond that the pandemic has led to a proliferation of potentially loneliness-easing communication technologies. Few of us had ever used Zoom before the lockdowns; now, many of us see our colleagues every day on the platform for hours at a time. It’s not like we are incommunicado.</span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_rightRail__Dy9gl ArticleLayoutSection_flexRail__1-L_z\"><gpt-ad class=\"GptAd_root__nza6l ArticleRail_root__1oWnZ ArticleRail_label__142PO s-native s-native--standard s-native--small s-native--short-title\" format=\"rrail\" sizes-at-0=\"\" targeting-pos=\"boxrr2\" targeting-native=\"standard\" sizes-at-976=\"rail,native\"></gpt-ad></div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 3\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">But when it comes to happiness, these technologies are not a good substitute for in-person interaction. In the first study to examine the effects of Zoom since the pandemic’s onset, psychologists at the University of California at Los Angeles and the University of Cambridge surveyed 119 young adults on their mental health and found that “there was no association between the frequency of virtual social interactions and well-being.”</span></p>\n<div data-pos=\"boxinjector-m\" data-template=\"hippo/components/ads/article-mobile.html\" data-native=\"standard,gift\" class=\" ad-boxinjector-m-wrapper\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">That leaves us with the conclusion that while remote technologies might be a necessary substitute for in-person work during the pandemic, they are inadequate to meet our human need for contact. Researchers have already found “large increases in depressive symptoms, and large decrements in happiness and social satisfaction post-pandemic onset.” If we are complacent about going back to work, “Zoom forever” could escalate our epidemic of loneliness.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> </span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">And if it does, the consequences will most likely sneak up on us. Mental-health professionals believe that distress can build up over time without our conscious awareness. I found that the effects of isolation had crept in, depressing my mood and hampering my creativity in a way I didn’t recognize until I experienced the lightness and energy that came from human interaction. A highly contagious respiratory illness is certainly a health crisis. But it’s important to remember that, unremarked on and unchecked, loneliness could lead to a major crisis in mental and physical health, too.</span></p>\n<div data-pos=\"boxinjector-m\" data-template=\"hippo/components/ads/article-mobile.html\" data-native=\"standard,gift\" class=\" ad-boxinjector-m-wrapper\"></div>\n<p class=\"dropcap\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">N<span class=\"smallcaps\">o matter</span> how employers dress up fully remote work as a perk, workers will primarily pay the price—overtly in terms of home-office expenses, but especially covertly, in psychological costs—and should fight the trend. If given the choice, you should fight the torpor that comes from having to put on pants for work, and work at least a day every week in the office. Ideally, you should go in even more: Research suggests that the benefits of remote work start to plateau after only about 15 hours a week. If the office permanently closes, consider whether your employer has your best interests at heart, and if you can, think about moving to another company.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">This doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone needs to be at their desks 40-plus hours a week. In Australia, for example, trade unions set a standard of companies guaranteeing two-fifths of a workweek in the office to protect remote workers from problems of isolation. Whether more or less than this is the ideal level, having no office time at all is clearly an error.</span></p>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 3\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Avoiding this error is in employers’ interest as well, because loneliness over the long run wreaks havoc in the workforce. Research demonstrates that loneliness can drive employee burnout and turnover, which makes perfect sense given that friendship at work is a big part of a job’s true compensation. Making workers lonely is like gradually lowering their salaries: What might seem like a smart efficiency move could turn into a massive human-resource headache in relatively short order.</span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_rightRail__Dy9gl ArticleLayoutSection_flexRail__1-L_z\"><gpt-ad class=\"GptAd_root__nza6l ArticleRail_root__1oWnZ ArticleRail_label__142PO s-native s-native--standard s-native--small s-native--short-title\" format=\"rrail\" sizes-at-0=\"\" targeting-pos=\"boxrr3\" targeting-native=\"standard\" sizes-at-976=\"rail,native\"></gpt-ad></div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 4\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p class=\"dropcap\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">N<span class=\"smallcaps\">one of this</span> should come as a shock to us. In his <em>Politics</em>, Aristotle claimed, “A man who is incapable of entering into partnership, or who is so self-sufficing that he has no need to do so … must be either a lower animal or a god.” And this is a well-documented scientific truth, not just a philosophical one. To isolate ourselves from others is aberrant to our nature, and makes thriving impossible. We are social animals, not made to live and work in isolation.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">An unhappiness epidemic in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic is a real threat. That’s the bad news. The good news is that it is both predictable and avoidable. But the longer we continue to self-isolate, the more likely we are to experience a downshift in our collective happiness.</span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2021/04/zoom-remote-work-loneliness-happiness/618473/\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','The Hidden Toll of Remote Work','','publish','closed','closed','','the-hidden-toll-of-remote-work','','','2021-04-02 19:49:38','2021-04-02 19:49:38','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?page_id=1259',0,'page','',0),(1264,1,'2021-04-12 20:18:22','2021-04-12 20:18:22','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<h1 spacing=\"4\" class=\"Heading__HeadingStyled-sc-1w5xk2o-0 bqrWOf Heading-sc-1w5xk2o-1 NJLrK\" size=\"5\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>How to Minimize Social Security Taxes</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Social-security.jpg\" width=\"772\" height=\"519\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1267 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Your Social Security benefit may be taxable. Try these strategies to reduce your tax bill in retirement.</span></p>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"><span class=\"lede\"><strong>MOST WORKERS PAY INTO</strong> </span>the Social Security program throughout their career. Many people also pay taxes on part of their Social Security payments in retirement.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Is Social Security Income Taxable?</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees with low incomes or whose only source of income is Social Security generally don\'t pay income tax on their Social Security benefit. The average Social Security payment to retired workers was $1,547 in January 2021, or $18,564 for the year, which is considerably below the taxable threshold of $25,000 for an individual. However, some 40% of Social Security beneficiaries have to pay federal income tax on part of their benefit, according to the Social Security Administration. The income cutoffs for Social Security taxes are not adjusted for inflation each year, so more retirees will need to pay tax on their Social Security payments over time.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Here\'s how to reduce or avoid taxes on your Social Security benefit:</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleBodyRawList__ListContainer-sc-18hlulv-0 fHKjHB\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Stay below the taxable thresholds.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Manage your other retirement income sources.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Consider taking IRA withdrawals before signing up for Social Security.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Save in a Roth IRA.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Factor in state taxes.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Set up Social Security tax withholding.</span></h4>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">There are a variety of factors that determine whether your Social Security benefit will be taxed in retirement. Consider each of these strategies to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Stay Below the Taxable Thresholds</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security benefits become taxable if the sum of your adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest and half of your Social Security benefit exceeds $25,000 as an individual and $32,000 as a married couple. If these income sources are between $25,000 and $34,000 ($32,000 and $44,000 for couples), income tax will be due on half of your Social Security benefit. Retirees with incomes that top $34,000 ($44,000 for couples) pay income tax on up to 85% of their Social Security benefit.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">However, you will not have to pay tax on your entire Social Security benefit, regardless of your income. \"Many retirees are surprised to find that they have to pay taxes on up to 85% of the Social Security benefits they receive,\" says Dana Anspach, a certified financial planner and CEO of Sensible Money in Scottsdale, Arizona. \"The good news is, no matter what, 15% of the Social Security benefits you receive are tax-free.\"</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\"></div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Manage Your Other Retirement Income Sources</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__FirstInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-0 kYlGEo sm-hide md-hide\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 bwWzQw\" spacing=\"4\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees who have income from another source in addition to Social Security frequently have to pay tax on part of their Social Security benefit. Pension payments, dividends and interest from savings and investments, earnings from a part-time job and withdrawals from traditional 401(k)s and IRAs are sources of retirement income that can contribute to making your Social Security payments taxable.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Consider Taking IRA Withdrawals Before Signing Up for Social Security</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">You have some control over when to take withdrawals from retirement accounts during your 60s, because you can begin taking penalty-free distributions after age 59 1/2 (and in some cases age 55), but you aren\'t required to take minimum withdrawals until after age 72. You might be able to reduce your Social Security income tax bill if you withdraw money from your traditional 401(k) or IRA in the years before you sign up for Social Security.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"For many retirees, changing the order they tap their savings to generate income can minimize taxes on Social Security,\" says William Meyer, founder and managing principal of Social Security Solutions, a company that analyzes Social Security claiming strategies. \"Many middle-income retirees should consider withdrawing their IRA account first before starting Social Security. This reduces their IRA account balance by the time required minimum distributions start, and many times the amount of Social Security taxes that typically increase as retirees withdraw more IRA money at the age of 70 and beyond.\"</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Some retirees take a large retirement account distribution in the year before signing up for Social Security, while others take IRA distributions for several years in order to delay claiming Social Security and qualify for higher Social Security payments in the future.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Managing or controlling your income for a particular year means timing withdrawals other than required minimum distributions such that the income for the year is stacked in one year, with the following or preceding year having a lower amount of distribution income,\" says Jim Blankenship, a certified financial planner and founder of Blankenship Financial Planning in New Berlin, Illinois.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">After age 70 1/2, you might be able to avoid paying income tax on your IRA required minimum distribution if you donate it directly to a qualifying charity. \"RMDs could be eliminated or partly eliminated from the tax return by use of qualified charitable distributions,\" Blankenship says. When you donate a required distribution to charity, it is not counted as income and does not contribute to the taxation of your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Save in a Roth IRA</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Distributions from Roth 401(k)s and Roth IRAs after age 59 1/2 from an account that\'s at least five years old are not taxable and don\'t contribute to the taxation of your Social Security benefits. Saving for retirement in an after-tax Roth account sets you up for tax-free withdrawals in retirement, and also allows you to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Money that comes out of Roth IRA accounts does not count in the formula that determines how much of your Social Security is subject to taxation,\" Anspach says. \"By the time you begin Social Security, if you have more money in Roth IRAs and less money in tax-deferred accounts, you will have more flexibility in when you draw money out of what type of account. With planning, you can draw money out in a way that reduces your tax liability over the course of your retirement years.\"</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__SubsequentInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-1 eSZloL sm-hide md-hide\" data-ad-collide=\"true\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 doTocE\" spacing=\"5\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Factor in State Taxes</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Where you live can play a role in whether your Social Security payments will be taxed. Most states don\'t tax Social Security income. However, 13 states tax Social Security income, often with exceptions for low-income retirees, according to data from information services company Wolters Kluwer. The states that tax Social Security income include Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and West Virginia.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Set Up Social Security Tax Withholding</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Those who owe taxes on their Social Security payments can elect to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS or have federal taxes withheld from monthly payments. You can have 7%, 10%, 12% or 22% of your monthly benefit withheld for taxes, but you cannot select a different percentage or a flat dollar amount. Setting up tax withholding is generally more convenient than having to pay a tax bill every quarter.</span></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/how-to-minimize-social-security-taxes\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','How to Minimize Social Security Taxes','','publish','closed','closed','','how-to-minimize-social-security-taxes','','','2021-04-13 16:50:36','2021-04-13 16:50:36','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?page_id=1264',0,'page','',0),(1265,1,'2021-04-12 20:18:22','2021-04-12 20:18:22','<!-- wp:divi/placeholder /-->','How to Minimize Social Security Taxes','','inherit','closed','closed','','1264-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 20:18:22','2021-04-12 20:18:22','',1264,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1264-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1262,1,'2021-04-02 19:49:38','2021-04-02 19:49:38','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<h1 class=\"ArticleHeader_hed__hCOBy\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><strong>The Hidden Toll of Remote Work</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"><img src=\"https://cdn.theatlantic.com/thumbor/NwDBiO7huTTHc0AUZrZF1qgnKm4=/0x0:3000x1688/720x405/https://cdn.theatlantic.com/media/img/mt/2021/03/unnamed-3/original.jpg\" alt=\"A person in the shape of a house works on a desktop computer while puffs of smoke in the shape of frowny faces escape the chimney.\" /></div>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 1\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p class=\"dropcap\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">A<span class=\"smallcaps\">t the end</span> of January, I went back to teaching my students in person for the first time in 10 months. It was only two days a week, and an hour and a half at a time. We were all avoiding contact and wearing masks, so normal human interaction was almost nonexistent. But for me, it was like springtime in Paris. I started sleeping better; my mood improved; I became more energetic and optimistic.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Between one-third and one-half of American employees worked in person throughout the pandemic, with or without a say in the matter, and some at great personal risk. Most of the rest of us were forced to work from home, also without necessarily wanting to. And in fact, almost two-thirds of people in a poll last fall felt that the cons of working from home outweighed the pros, and nearly a third said they had considered quitting their jobs since being banned from the workplace. In another poll, about 70 percent said that mixing work and other responsibilities had become a source of stress, and about three in four American workers in the early days of the pandemic confessed to being “burned out.”</span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_rightRail__Dy9gl\"><gpt-ad class=\"GptAd_root__nza6l ArticleRail_root__1oWnZ s-native s-native--standard s-native--small s-native--short-title\" format=\"rrail\" sizes-at-0=\"\" targeting-pos=\"boxrr1\" sizes-at-976=\"rail\"></gpt-ad></div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 2\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">So while some people are understandably nervous about returning to their workplace, many are having an experience more like mine. My friends and colleagues who have returned to a physical office and seen others—even in a limited capacity—have told me that returning made them realize how isolated they had become during the pandemic, and the burden of stress they had been carrying, even if they faced no job threat or major health risk.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Some employers, however, have realized that several of the pandemic’s workarounds are cost-efficient, and are considering making them permanent. There are many corporate leaders who still recognize that, in Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s words, “digital technology should not be a substitute for human connection.” But in what we might call a “Zoom forever” move, many other companies are contemplating radically downsizing traditional office spaces and making remote work permanent for large groups of employees.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">The problem is, if millions of people never “go back to work” in a way that resembles the pre-pandemic world, it could have drastic consequences for our well-being. There’s nothing wrong with a partially remote situation—say, work-from-home Fridays or more flexible schedules. But going fully remote forever could exacerbate one of the worst happiness disasters of the pandemic.</span></p>\n<p class=\"dropcap\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">R<span class=\"smallcaps\">emote work</span> does have some happiness benefits, and not just for employers looking to cut office costs. For people living in or near congested cities, for example, commuting is time-consuming and soul-crushing; it is near the top of daily activities that stimulate unhappiness.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">However, aggravation from commuting is no match for the misery of loneliness, which can lead to depression, substance abuse, sedentary behavior, and relationship damage, among other ills. And it is simply undeniable that remote work usually leads to loneliness. In research conducted more than a decade before the pandemic about remote work among journalists, the organizational psychologist Lynn Holdsworth found that full-time telework increased loneliness over office work by 67 percentage points. Based on data from 2019, the 2020 <em>State of Remote Work </em>report issued by the social-media management firm Buffer showed that loneliness is the biggest struggle remote workers say they face, tied with problems of collaboration and communication.</span></p>\n<div data-pos=\"boxinjector-m\" data-template=\"hippo/components/ads/article-mobile.html\" data-native=\"standard,gift\" class=\" ad-boxinjector-m-wrapper\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Work is where many people have the bulk of their social interactions. In a recent survey, 70 percent of employees said friendship at their job is the most important element of a happy work life. Research shows that employees say a co-located office environment is where they establish not just work collaborations but also their social ties.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> </span></p>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 2\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Employers intent on abandoning the physical office might respond that the pandemic has led to a proliferation of potentially loneliness-easing communication technologies. Few of us had ever used Zoom before the lockdowns; now, many of us see our colleagues every day on the platform for hours at a time. It’s not like we are incommunicado.</span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_rightRail__Dy9gl ArticleLayoutSection_flexRail__1-L_z\"><gpt-ad class=\"GptAd_root__nza6l ArticleRail_root__1oWnZ ArticleRail_label__142PO s-native s-native--standard s-native--small s-native--short-title\" format=\"rrail\" sizes-at-0=\"\" targeting-pos=\"boxrr2\" targeting-native=\"standard\" sizes-at-976=\"rail,native\"></gpt-ad></div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 3\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">But when it comes to happiness, these technologies are not a good substitute for in-person interaction. In the first study to examine the effects of Zoom since the pandemic’s onset, psychologists at the University of California at Los Angeles and the University of Cambridge surveyed 119 young adults on their mental health and found that “there was no association between the frequency of virtual social interactions and well-being.”</span></p>\n<div data-pos=\"boxinjector-m\" data-template=\"hippo/components/ads/article-mobile.html\" data-native=\"standard,gift\" class=\" ad-boxinjector-m-wrapper\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">That leaves us with the conclusion that while remote technologies might be a necessary substitute for in-person work during the pandemic, they are inadequate to meet our human need for contact. Researchers have already found “large increases in depressive symptoms, and large decrements in happiness and social satisfaction post-pandemic onset.” If we are complacent about going back to work, “Zoom forever” could escalate our epidemic of loneliness.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"> </span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">And if it does, the consequences will most likely sneak up on us. Mental-health professionals believe that distress can build up over time without our conscious awareness. I found that the effects of isolation had crept in, depressing my mood and hampering my creativity in a way I didn’t recognize until I experienced the lightness and energy that came from human interaction. A highly contagious respiratory illness is certainly a health crisis. But it’s important to remember that, unremarked on and unchecked, loneliness could lead to a major crisis in mental and physical health, too.</span></p>\n<div data-pos=\"boxinjector-m\" data-template=\"hippo/components/ads/article-mobile.html\" data-native=\"standard,gift\" class=\" ad-boxinjector-m-wrapper\"></div>\n<p class=\"dropcap\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">N<span class=\"smallcaps\">o matter</span> how employers dress up fully remote work as a perk, workers will primarily pay the price—overtly in terms of home-office expenses, but especially covertly, in psychological costs—and should fight the trend. If given the choice, you should fight the torpor that comes from having to put on pants for work, and work at least a day every week in the office. Ideally, you should go in even more: Research suggests that the benefits of remote work start to plateau after only about 15 hours a week. If the office permanently closes, consider whether your employer has your best interests at heart, and if you can, think about moving to another company.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">This doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone needs to be at their desks 40-plus hours a week. In Australia, for example, trade unions set a standard of companies guaranteeing two-fifths of a workweek in the office to protect remote workers from problems of isolation. Whether more or less than this is the ideal level, having no office time at all is clearly an error.</span></p>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 3\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Avoiding this error is in employers’ interest as well, because loneliness over the long run wreaks havoc in the workforce. Research demonstrates that loneliness can drive employee burnout and turnover, which makes perfect sense given that friendship at work is a big part of a job’s true compensation. Making workers lonely is like gradually lowering their salaries: What might seem like a smart efficiency move could turn into a massive human-resource headache in relatively short order.</span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_rightRail__Dy9gl ArticleLayoutSection_flexRail__1-L_z\"><gpt-ad class=\"GptAd_root__nza6l ArticleRail_root__1oWnZ ArticleRail_label__142PO s-native s-native--standard s-native--small s-native--short-title\" format=\"rrail\" sizes-at-0=\"\" targeting-pos=\"boxrr3\" targeting-native=\"standard\" sizes-at-976=\"rail,native\"></gpt-ad></div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_root__3bI90\" data-section-index=\"article section 4\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_main__1ujKr\">\n<div class=\"ArticleLayoutSection_sectionsContainer__UvRze\">\n<section class=\"ArticleContent_root__2rc_g fonts-loaded\">\n<p class=\"dropcap\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">N<span class=\"smallcaps\">one of this</span> should come as a shock to us. In his <em>Politics</em>, Aristotle claimed, “A man who is incapable of entering into partnership, or who is so self-sufficing that he has no need to do so … must be either a lower animal or a god.” And this is a well-documented scientific truth, not just a philosophical one. To isolate ourselves from others is aberrant to our nature, and makes thriving impossible. We are social animals, not made to live and work in isolation.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\">An unhappiness epidemic in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic is a real threat. That’s the bad news. The good news is that it is both predictable and avoidable. But the longer we continue to self-isolate, the more likely we are to experience a downshift in our collective happiness.</span></p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n</section>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2021/04/zoom-remote-work-loneliness-happiness/618473/\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','The Hidden Toll of Remote Work','','inherit','closed','closed','','1259-revision-v1','','','2021-04-02 19:49:38','2021-04-02 19:49:38','',1259,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1259-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1273,1,'2021-04-12 20:34:52','2021-04-12 20:34:52','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<h1 spacing=\"4\" class=\"Heading__HeadingStyled-sc-1w5xk2o-0 bqrWOf Heading-sc-1w5xk2o-1 NJLrK\" size=\"5\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>How to Minimize Social Security Taxes</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Social-security.jpg\" width=\"772\" height=\"519\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1267 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Your Social Security benefit may be taxable. Try these strategies to reduce your tax bill in retirement.</span></p>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div class=\"content-ad-wrap\"><span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-115\"></span></div>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"><span class=\"lede\"><strong>MOST WORKERS PAY INTO</strong> </span>the Social Security program throughout their career. Many people also pay taxes on part of their Social Security payments in retirement.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Is Social Security Income Taxable?</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees with low incomes or whose only source of income is Social Security generally don\'t pay income tax on their <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/frequently-asked-social-security-benefit-questions\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security benefit</a>. The average Social Security payment to retired workers was $1,547 in January 2021, or $18,564 for the year, which is considerably below the taxable threshold of $25,000 for an individual. However, some 40% of Social Security beneficiaries have to pay federal income tax on part of their benefit, according to the Social Security Administration. The income cutoffs for <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/when-you-need-to-pay-taxes-on-social-security\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security taxes</a> are not adjusted for inflation each year, so more retirees will need to pay tax on their Social Security payments over time.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Here\'s how to reduce or avoid taxes on your Social Security benefit:</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleBodyRawList__ListContainer-sc-18hlulv-0 fHKjHB\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Stay below the taxable thresholds.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Manage your other retirement income sources.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Consider taking IRA withdrawals before signing up for Social Security.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Save in a Roth IRA.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Factor in state taxes.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Set up Social Security tax withholding.</span></h4>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">There are a variety of factors that determine whether your Social Security benefit will be taxed in retirement. Consider each of these strategies to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Stay Below the Taxable Thresholds</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security benefits become taxable if the sum of your adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest and half of your Social Security benefit exceeds $25,000 as an individual and $32,000 as a married couple. If these income sources are between $25,000 and $34,000 ($32,000 and $44,000 for couples), income tax will be due on half of your Social Security benefit. Retirees with incomes that top $34,000 ($44,000 for couples) pay income tax on up to 85% of their Social Security benefit.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">However, you will not have to pay tax on your entire Social Security benefit, regardless of your income. \"Many retirees are surprised to find that they have to pay taxes on up to 85% of the Social Security benefits they receive,\" says Dana Anspach, a certified financial planner and CEO of Sensible Money in Scottsdale, Arizona. \"The good news is, no matter what, 15% of the Social Security benefits you receive are tax-free.\"</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\"></div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Manage Your Other Retirement Income Sources</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__FirstInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-0 kYlGEo sm-hide md-hide\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 bwWzQw\" spacing=\"4\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees who have income from another source in addition to Social Security frequently have to pay tax on part of their Social Security benefit. Pension payments, dividends and interest from savings and investments, earnings from a part-time job and withdrawals from traditional 401(k)s and IRAs are sources of retirement income that can contribute to making your Social Security payments taxable.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Consider Taking IRA Withdrawals Before Signing Up for Social Security</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">You have some control over when to take withdrawals from retirement accounts during your 60s, because you can begin taking <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/slideshows/ways-to-avoid-the-ira-early-withdrawal-penalty\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">penalty-free distributions</a> after age 59 1/2 (and in some cases <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/401ks/slideshows/9-ways-to-avoid-401-k-fees-and-penalties\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">age 55</a>), but you aren\'t required to take minimum withdrawals until after age 72. You might be able to reduce your Social Security income tax bill if you withdraw money from your traditional 401(k) or IRA in the years before you sign up for Social Security.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"For many retirees, changing the order they tap their savings to generate income can minimize taxes on Social Security,\" says William Meyer, founder and managing principal of Social Security Solutions, a company that analyzes Social Security claiming strategies. \"Many middle-income retirees should consider withdrawing their IRA account first before starting Social Security. This reduces their IRA account balance by the time required minimum distributions start, and many times the amount of Social Security taxes that typically increase as retirees withdraw more IRA money at the age of 70 and beyond.\"</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Some retirees take a large retirement account distribution in the year before signing up for Social Security, while others take IRA distributions for several years in order to delay claiming Social Security and qualify for higher Social Security payments in the future.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Managing or controlling your income for a particular year means timing withdrawals other than required minimum distributions such that the income for the year is stacked in one year, with the following or preceding year having a lower amount of distribution income,\" says Jim Blankenship, a certified financial planner and founder of Blankenship Financial Planning in New Berlin, Illinois.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">After age 70 1/2, you might be able to avoid paying income tax on your IRA required minimum distribution if you donate it directly to a qualifying charity. \"RMDs could be eliminated or partly eliminated from the tax return by use of qualified charitable distributions,\" Blankenship says. When you <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/iras/articles/how-to-donate-to-charity-from-your-ira\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">donate a required distribution to charity</a>, it is not counted as income and does not contribute to the taxation of your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Save in a Roth IRA</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Distributions from Roth 401(k)s and <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/iras/articles/how-to-open-a-roth-ira\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Roth IRAs</a> after age 59 1/2 from an account that\'s at least five years old are not taxable and don\'t contribute to the taxation of your Social Security benefits. Saving for retirement in an after-tax Roth account sets you up for tax-free withdrawals in retirement, and also allows you to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Money that comes out of Roth IRA accounts does not count in the formula that determines how much of your Social Security is subject to taxation,\" Anspach says. \"By the time you begin Social Security, if you have more money in Roth IRAs and less money in tax-deferred accounts, you will have more flexibility in when you draw money out of what type of account. With planning, you can draw money out in a way that reduces your tax liability over the course of your retirement years.\"</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__SubsequentInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-1 eSZloL sm-hide md-hide\" data-ad-collide=\"true\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 doTocE\" spacing=\"5\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Factor in State Taxes</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Where you live can play a role in whether your Social Security payments will be taxed. Most states don\'t tax Social Security income. However, 13 states tax Social Security income, often with exceptions for low-income retirees, according to data from information services company Wolters Kluwer. The states that tax Social Security income include Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and West Virginia.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Set Up Social Security Tax Withholding</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Those who owe taxes on their Social Security payments can elect to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS or have federal taxes withheld from monthly payments. You can have 7%, 10%, 12% or 22% of your monthly benefit withheld for taxes, but you cannot select a different percentage or a flat dollar amount. Setting up tax withholding is generally more convenient than having to pay a tax bill every quarter.</span></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://smallbiztrends.com/2020/09/10-tiny-pivots-to-make-your-small-business-more-effective.html\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','How to Minimize Social Security Taxes','','inherit','closed','closed','','1264-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 20:34:52','2021-04-12 20:34:52','',1264,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1264-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1271,1,'2021-04-12 20:34:14','2021-04-12 20:34:14','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<h1 spacing=\"4\" class=\"Heading__HeadingStyled-sc-1w5xk2o-0 bqrWOf Heading-sc-1w5xk2o-1 NJLrK\" size=\"5\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>How to Minimize Social Security Taxes</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Social-security.jpg\" width=\"772\" height=\"519\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1267 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Your Social Security benefit may be taxable. Try these strategies to reduce your tax bill in retirement.</span></p>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div class=\"content-ad-wrap\"><span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-115\"></span></div>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"><span class=\"lede\"><strong>MOST WORKERS PAY INTO</strong> </span>the Social Security program throughout their career. Many people also pay taxes on part of their Social Security payments in retirement.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Is Social Security Income Taxable?</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees with low incomes or whose only source of income is Social Security generally don\'t pay income tax on their <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/frequently-asked-social-security-benefit-questions\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security benefit</a>. The average Social Security payment to retired workers was $1,547 in January 2021, or $18,564 for the year, which is considerably below the taxable threshold of $25,000 for an individual. However, some 40% of Social Security beneficiaries have to pay federal income tax on part of their benefit, according to the Social Security Administration. The income cutoffs for <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/when-you-need-to-pay-taxes-on-social-security\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security taxes</a> are not adjusted for inflation each year, so more retirees will need to pay tax on their Social Security payments over time.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Here\'s how to reduce or avoid taxes on your Social Security benefit:</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"ArticleBodyRawList__ListContainer-sc-18hlulv-0 fHKjHB\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Stay below the taxable thresholds.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Manage your other retirement income sources.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Consider taking IRA withdrawals before signing up for Social Security.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Save in a Roth IRA.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Factor in state taxes.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Set up Social Security tax withholding.</span></h4>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">There are a variety of factors that determine whether your Social Security benefit will be taxed in retirement. Consider each of these strategies to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Stay Below the Taxable Thresholds</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security benefits become taxable if the sum of your adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest and half of your Social Security benefit exceeds $25,000 as an individual and $32,000 as a married couple. If these income sources are between $25,000 and $34,000 ($32,000 and $44,000 for couples), income tax will be due on half of your Social Security benefit. Retirees with incomes that top $34,000 ($44,000 for couples) pay income tax on up to 85% of their Social Security benefit.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">However, you will not have to pay tax on your entire Social Security benefit, regardless of your income. \"Many retirees are surprised to find that they have to pay taxes on up to 85% of the Social Security benefits they receive,\" says Dana Anspach, a certified financial planner and CEO of Sensible Money in Scottsdale, Arizona. \"The good news is, no matter what, 15% of the Social Security benefits you receive are tax-free.\"</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\"></div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Manage Your Other Retirement Income Sources</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__FirstInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-0 kYlGEo sm-hide md-hide\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 bwWzQw\" spacing=\"4\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees who have income from another source in addition to Social Security frequently have to pay tax on part of their Social Security benefit. Pension payments, dividends and interest from savings and investments, earnings from a part-time job and withdrawals from traditional 401(k)s and IRAs are sources of retirement income that can contribute to making your Social Security payments taxable.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Consider Taking IRA Withdrawals Before Signing Up for Social Security</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">You have some control over when to take withdrawals from retirement accounts during your 60s, because you can begin taking <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/slideshows/ways-to-avoid-the-ira-early-withdrawal-penalty\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">penalty-free distributions</a> after age 59 1/2 (and in some cases <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/401ks/slideshows/9-ways-to-avoid-401-k-fees-and-penalties\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">age 55</a>), but you aren\'t required to take minimum withdrawals until after age 72. You might be able to reduce your Social Security income tax bill if you withdraw money from your traditional 401(k) or IRA in the years before you sign up for Social Security.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"For many retirees, changing the order they tap their savings to generate income can minimize taxes on Social Security,\" says William Meyer, founder and managing principal of Social Security Solutions, a company that analyzes Social Security claiming strategies. \"Many middle-income retirees should consider withdrawing their IRA account first before starting Social Security. This reduces their IRA account balance by the time required minimum distributions start, and many times the amount of Social Security taxes that typically increase as retirees withdraw more IRA money at the age of 70 and beyond.\"</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Some retirees take a large retirement account distribution in the year before signing up for Social Security, while others take IRA distributions for several years in order to delay claiming Social Security and qualify for higher Social Security payments in the future.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Managing or controlling your income for a particular year means timing withdrawals other than required minimum distributions such that the income for the year is stacked in one year, with the following or preceding year having a lower amount of distribution income,\" says Jim Blankenship, a certified financial planner and founder of Blankenship Financial Planning in New Berlin, Illinois.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">After age 70 1/2, you might be able to avoid paying income tax on your IRA required minimum distribution if you donate it directly to a qualifying charity. \"RMDs could be eliminated or partly eliminated from the tax return by use of qualified charitable distributions,\" Blankenship says. When you <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/iras/articles/how-to-donate-to-charity-from-your-ira\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">donate a required distribution to charity</a>, it is not counted as income and does not contribute to the taxation of your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Save in a Roth IRA</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Distributions from Roth 401(k)s and <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/iras/articles/how-to-open-a-roth-ira\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Roth IRAs</a> after age 59 1/2 from an account that\'s at least five years old are not taxable and don\'t contribute to the taxation of your Social Security benefits. Saving for retirement in an after-tax Roth account sets you up for tax-free withdrawals in retirement, and also allows you to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Money that comes out of Roth IRA accounts does not count in the formula that determines how much of your Social Security is subject to taxation,\" Anspach says. \"By the time you begin Social Security, if you have more money in Roth IRAs and less money in tax-deferred accounts, you will have more flexibility in when you draw money out of what type of account. With planning, you can draw money out in a way that reduces your tax liability over the course of your retirement years.\"</span></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__SubsequentInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-1 eSZloL sm-hide md-hide\" data-ad-collide=\"true\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 doTocE\" spacing=\"5\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Factor in State Taxes</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Where you live can play a role in whether your Social Security payments will be taxed. Most states don\'t tax Social Security income. However, 13 states tax Social Security income, often with exceptions for low-income retirees, according to data from information services company Wolters Kluwer. The states that tax Social Security income include Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and West Virginia.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Set Up Social Security Tax Withholding</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Those who owe taxes on their Social Security payments can elect to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS or have federal taxes withheld from monthly payments. You can have 7%, 10%, 12% or 22% of your monthly benefit withheld for taxes, but you cannot select a different percentage or a flat dollar amount. Setting up tax withholding is generally more convenient than having to pay a tax bill every quarter.</span></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://smallbiztrends.com/2020/09/10-tiny-pivots-to-make-your-small-business-more-effective.html\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','How to Minimize Social Security Taxes','','inherit','closed','closed','','1264-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 20:34:14','2021-04-12 20:34:14','',1264,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1264-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1270,1,'2021-04-12 20:33:25','2021-04-12 20:33:25','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<h1 spacing=\"4\" class=\"Heading__HeadingStyled-sc-1w5xk2o-0 bqrWOf Heading-sc-1w5xk2o-1 NJLrK\" size=\"5\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>How to Minimize Social Security Taxes</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Social-security.jpg\" width=\"772\" height=\"519\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1267 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Your Social Security benefit may be taxable. Try these strategies to reduce your tax bill in retirement.</span></p>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div class=\"content-ad-wrap\"><span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-115\"></span></div>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"><span class=\"lede\"><strong>MOST WORKERS PAY INTO</strong> </span>the Social Security program throughout their career. Many people also pay taxes on part of their Social Security payments in retirement.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Is Social Security Income Taxable?</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees with low incomes or whose only source of income is Social Security generally don\'t pay income tax on their <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/frequently-asked-social-security-benefit-questions\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security benefit</a>. The average Social Security payment to retired workers was $1,547 in January 2021, or $18,564 for the year, which is considerably below the taxable threshold of $25,000 for an individual. However, some 40% of Social Security beneficiaries have to pay federal income tax on part of their benefit, according to the Social Security Administration. The income cutoffs for <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/social-security/articles/when-you-need-to-pay-taxes-on-social-security\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security taxes</a> are not adjusted for inflation each year, so more retirees will need to pay tax on their Social Security payments over time.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Here\'s how to reduce or avoid taxes on your Social Security benefit:</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<p><react-trigger trigger=\"view\"></react-trigger></p>\n<div class=\"ArticleBodyRawList__ListContainer-sc-18hlulv-0 fHKjHB\">\n<ul>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Stay below the taxable thresholds.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Manage your other retirement income sources.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Consider taking IRA withdrawals before signing up for Social Security.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Save in a Roth IRA.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Factor in state taxes.</span></h4>\n</li>\n<li>\n<h4><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f; font-size: small;\">Set up Social Security tax withholding.</span></h4>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">There are a variety of factors that determine whether your Social Security benefit will be taxed in retirement. Consider each of these strategies to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Stay Below the Taxable Thresholds</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Social Security benefits become taxable if the sum of your adjusted gross income, nontaxable interest and half of your Social Security benefit exceeds $25,000 as an individual and $32,000 as a married couple. If these income sources are between $25,000 and $34,000 ($32,000 and $44,000 for couples), income tax will be due on half of your Social Security benefit. Retirees with incomes that top $34,000 ($44,000 for couples) pay income tax on up to 85% of their Social Security benefit.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">However, you will not have to pay tax on your entire Social Security benefit, regardless of your income. \"Many retirees are surprised to find that they have to pay taxes on up to 85% of the Social Security benefits they receive,\" says Dana Anspach, a certified financial planner and CEO of Sensible Money in Scottsdale, Arizona. \"The good news is, no matter what, 15% of the Social Security benefits you receive are tax-free.\"</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\"></div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Manage Your Other Retirement Income Sources</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__FirstInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-0 kYlGEo sm-hide md-hide\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 bwWzQw\" spacing=\"4\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Retirees who have income from another source in addition to Social Security frequently have to pay tax on part of their Social Security benefit. Pension payments, dividends and interest from savings and investments, earnings from a part-time job and withdrawals from traditional 401(k)s and IRAs are sources of retirement income that can contribute to making your Social Security payments taxable.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Consider Taking IRA Withdrawals Before Signing Up for Social Security</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">You have some control over when to take withdrawals from retirement accounts during your 60s, because you can begin taking <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/slideshows/ways-to-avoid-the-ira-early-withdrawal-penalty\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">penalty-free distributions</a> after age 59 1/2 (and in some cases <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/401ks/slideshows/9-ways-to-avoid-401-k-fees-and-penalties\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">age 55</a>), but you aren\'t required to take minimum withdrawals until after age 72. You might be able to reduce your Social Security income tax bill if you withdraw money from your traditional 401(k) or IRA in the years before you sign up for Social Security.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"For many retirees, changing the order they tap their savings to generate income can minimize taxes on Social Security,\" says William Meyer, founder and managing principal of Social Security Solutions, a company that analyzes Social Security claiming strategies. \"Many middle-income retirees should consider withdrawing their IRA account first before starting Social Security. This reduces their IRA account balance by the time required minimum distributions start, and many times the amount of Social Security taxes that typically increase as retirees withdraw more IRA money at the age of 70 and beyond.\"</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Some retirees take a large retirement account distribution in the year before signing up for Social Security, while others take IRA distributions for several years in order to delay claiming Social Security and qualify for higher Social Security payments in the future.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Managing or controlling your income for a particular year means timing withdrawals other than required minimum distributions such that the income for the year is stacked in one year, with the following or preceding year having a lower amount of distribution income,\" says Jim Blankenship, a certified financial planner and founder of Blankenship Financial Planning in New Berlin, Illinois.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">After age 70 1/2, you might be able to avoid paying income tax on your IRA required minimum distribution if you donate it directly to a qualifying charity. \"RMDs could be eliminated or partly eliminated from the tax return by use of qualified charitable distributions,\" Blankenship says. When you <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/iras/articles/how-to-donate-to-charity-from-your-ira\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">donate a required distribution to charity</a>, it is not counted as income and does not contribute to the taxation of your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Save in a Roth IRA</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Distributions from Roth 401(k)s and <a href=\"https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/iras/articles/how-to-open-a-roth-ira\" style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Roth IRAs</a> after age 59 1/2 from an account that\'s at least five years old are not taxable and don\'t contribute to the taxation of your Social Security benefits. Saving for retirement in an after-tax Roth account sets you up for tax-free withdrawals in retirement, and also allows you to minimize taxes on your Social Security payments.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">\"Money that comes out of Roth IRA accounts does not count in the formula that determines how much of your Social Security is subject to taxation,\" Anspach says. \"By the time you begin Social Security, if you have more money in Roth IRAs and less money in tax-deferred accounts, you will have more flexibility in when you draw money out of what type of account. With planning, you can draw money out in a way that reduces your tax liability over the course of your retirement years.\"</span></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"InartAd__SubsequentInartAdWrapper-sc-8wv8ky-1 eSZloL sm-hide md-hide\" data-ad-collide=\"true\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div class=\"Ad__Container-sc-1ah7c5n-0 doTocE\" spacing=\"5\"></div>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Factor in State Taxes</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Where you live can play a role in whether your Social Security payments will be taxed. Most states don\'t tax Social Security income. However, 13 states tax Social Security income, often with exceptions for low-income retirees, according to data from information services company Wolters Kluwer. The states that tax Social Security income include Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and West Virginia.</span></p>\n</div>\n<div spacing=\"4\" class=\"Box-w0dun1-0 AnchorBlock__AnchorWrapper-sc-1ktbrp2-0 erSrIv fFwDTg\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\"> </span></p>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<h3 class=\"heading-large\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Set Up Social Security Tax Withholding</span></h3>\n</div>\n<div size=\"5\" spacing=\"4\" class=\"Raw-slyvem-0 iyvmNz\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0f0f0f;\">Those who owe taxes on their Social Security payments can elect to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS or have federal taxes withheld from monthly payments. You can have 7%, 10%, 12% or 22% of your monthly benefit withheld for taxes, but you cannot select a different percentage or a flat dollar amount. Setting up tax withholding is generally more convenient than having to pay a tax bill every quarter.</span></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://smallbiztrends.com/2020/09/10-tiny-pivots-to-make-your-small-business-more-effective.html\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','How to Minimize Social Security Taxes','','inherit','closed','closed','','1264-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 20:33:25','2021-04-12 20:33:25','',1264,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1264-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1276,1,'2021-04-12 20:38:16','2021-04-12 20:38:16','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Best Budgeting Apps</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Budget-apps-1024x683.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1279 aligncenter size-large\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 26px;\">Manage your money with these budgeting apps</span></p>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div class=\"content-ad-wrap\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-115\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></div>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div class=\"loc article-intro article-content__description article-container expert-content \" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most people would prefer to spend less and save more, but the day-to-day reality of work, family life, and other commitments makes it impractical, if not seemingly impossible. Let’s face it, it’s tough to find the time or motivation for budgeting, and some folks skip it altogether.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">For these and many other reasons, budgeting apps have become increasingly popular over the past decade. This software makes it easier to monitor your spending and saving habits by linking accounts to an application and tracking your cash flow. These apps, free or paid, offer a range of features to improve your finances.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We reviewed 15 of the best budgeting apps on the market to find the best options for new or experienced budgeters. We compared cost, functionality, features, security, reviews, and more. These are the best options to improve your budget.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n<div id=\"product-roundup-content__summary-list_1-0\" class=\"comp js-toc-appear product-roundup-content__summary-list summary-list--roundup summary-list\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"summary-list\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h2 class=\"summary-list__title\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The 6 Best Budgeting Apps of 2021</span></h2>\n<ul class=\"summary-list__content\">\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Overall:</strong> <a href=\"https://youneedabudget.a4xxmk.net/c/2104074/869639/10892?subid1=5085405&amp;subid2=nda72bc70c3d84b3cad2762dad847928f20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" data-affiliate-link-rewriter=\"subid1=${DOC_ID}&amp;subid2=${REQUEST_ID}\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You Need a Budget (YNAB)</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Free Budgeting App:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.mint.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Cash Flow:</strong> <a href=\"https://simplifi.sjv.io/c/2104074/946869/11855?subId1=5085405&amp;sharedid=Investopedia&amp;subid1=5085405&amp;subid2=nda72bc70c3d84b3cad2762dad847928f20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" data-affiliate-link-rewriter=\"subid1=${DOC_ID}&amp;subid2=${REQUEST_ID}\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Overspenders:</strong> <a href=\"https://pocketguard.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Building Wealth:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.personalcapital.com/get-started/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Couples:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.askzeta.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta</a></span></li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-body\">\n<div class=\"loc article-left-nav article-body__left-nav product-roundup__left-nav js-sticky-container\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div id=\"product-roundup__toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc-widget product-roundup__toc sticky-toc--finance sticky-toc--base mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-desktop-bp=\"54em\" data-chop-desktop=\"false\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\"></div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-overall-you-need-a-budget-ynab\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST OVERALL </span></span></h3>\n<h3 class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">You Need a Budget (YNAB)</span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/PqHgTIY395mHf1x4m1YweQ58QN0=/1292x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/MrvDttJe1b-DFuDYHwOn4Xv1n7E=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/KZEpDwjtLbaGsu4P-QByHyIyW1g=/548x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 548w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/n0s9d_Ym0LKW3WYngdKFykUrpSY=/796x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 796w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/bjhJaHqJA7IBXwXAoqx3oiZ5fGo=/1292x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 1292w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-link-closest-header=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".mntl-sc-commerce-btn-list__btn\"></div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You Need a Budget, or YNAB, earns the top spot because of the company’s renowned budgeting philosophy and reputation. YNAB says new budgeters typically save $600 in their first two months and more than $6,000 in their first year. Although YNAB is the most costly option on our list, the company offers a 34-day free trial and a 100% no-risk, money-back guarantee.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Complete <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/budget.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">budget</a> makeover</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 34-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">100% money-back guarantee</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong customer service and comprehensive education</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$84 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">More time-intensive to learn</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Recent sync issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB rises to the top of our list because of its budgeting philosophy and money-back guarantee. The company offers a free trial for 34 days (no credit card required) and after that, the cost is $84 per year. If you prefer to pay less upfront, the cost is $11.99 per month.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB offers the ability to sync your bank accounts, import your data from a file, or manually enter each transaction. To begin, the company suggests learning the basics about the app through video courses, a live workshop, or reading a guide. YNAB offers a proactive budgeting approach, rather than tracking what you have already spent, like some competitors.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-6\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">After signing up, you create your first budget and assign every dollar a purpose, like your rent or car payment, for example. The goal is to eventually get at least one month ahead, so you’re spending money you earned from 30 days ago. The company offers extensive educational resources and customer support to keep you on track.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB says privacy and security are its top priority. The company protects your information by using bank-level encryption for all data, best practices for password security, third-party audits, and more.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-free-budgeting-app-mint\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FREE BUDGETING APP</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Mint</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-1\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/kynqNmNVT3Lhi0x3NZMGVV3GFUE=/994x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-1\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/y9IXs9i9-z1S1ZD0fa84xcpM6Qg=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/P_VB8LUd6EebQxo7pJcVqqa5zR8=/473x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 473w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/D__LzSNFfDX9585CEhpJ1co8uOY=/646x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 646w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/VaZpESCrNo2hXP0A4qn7OkX1xA4=/994x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 994w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/082216/how-mintcom-makes-money-intu.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint</a> stands out for a few reasons. It’s one of the most popular budgeting apps available, with over 25 million users. The app is free and easy to use for budgeters of all levels. You can also set up bill payment reminders, track investments, and access your TransUnion credit score—all of which makes Mint our choice for best free budgeting app.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-11\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free TransUnion <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/credit_score.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">credit scores</a></span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Investment tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product advertisements</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Spending categorization could be better</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-12\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint offers the best-known free budgeting app on the market. It’s a great <a href=\"https://www.kubera.com/blog/personal-capital-vs-mint-vs-kubera\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">option</a> for anyone looking to improve their spending habits. The app is free but you may see targeted financial product advertisements. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-13\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You may sync your financial accounts within the app or manually add transactions. Mint allows you to see all your accounts in one place and keep track of your spending on a daily basis. The app automatically organizes your spending, so you can see totals by category at a glance. Mint also offers monthly bill tracking, including payment reminders to avoid late fees. The app also offers the ability to keep track of your investments and check <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/portfolio.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">portfolio</a> fees. Mint offers a few education resources like a home affordability calculator, loan repayment calculator, and blog with a variety of personal finance topics. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-14\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint protects your data through features like security scanning with Verisign, multi-factor authentication, and touch ID mobile access. The company stores your login information in a separate database with multiple layers of hardware and software encryption.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-cash-flow-simplifi-by-quicken\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR CASH FLOW</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Simplifi by Quicken</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-2\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3HWXtn-XmigeKZylVDR8Q9xLSmk=/1012x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-2\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/aIcmtqophkrYNpL3SZXjlFhYbbw=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/5-J7AK3djgITfwIiSfiWOBYUJgk=/478x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 478w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/mEWtJyO3pPgb0YAkrGiikL9vSkA=/656x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 656w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/cPO4m_gc6KNxQTiUKUaMZ7SwFJk=/1012x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 1012w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-17\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken earns high marks because it offers a personalized spending plan with real-time updates of how much you have left to spend throughout the month. The app syncs your bank accounts to show you where you stand and your progress on financial goals. Simplifi by Quicken also tracks your monthly bills and subscriptions, including those you don’t use.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-18\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong cash flow tools</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Watch lists for mindful spending</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 30-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$35.99 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-19\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken ranks best for cash flow because of the app’s effective tracking capabilities. It’s the best option for staying on top of how much you can spend between your paychecks. The app offers a free 30-day trial and then you will pay $2.99 per month (billed annually at $35.99) or $3.99 per month if you choose not to pay upfront.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-20\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started, you have to sync bank accounts, and then you will have a complete snapshot of your finances. The app automatically categorizes your spending, tracks recurring bills and subscriptions, and stays on top of upcoming expenses. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-21\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">One standout feature is the app’s custom watchlists, which allow you to limit spending by category or payee. Also, the custom spending plan monitors cash flow to make sure you never spend more than you make. Simplifi by Quicken offers tips while you’re using the app, but there’s also a blog full of educational content at your fingertips. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-22\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Security and privacy are top priorities for Quicken, the app’s parent company. Quicken has been trusted with sensitive financial data for decades (since 1985) and continues to work on new security measures. The app uses 256-bit encryption to transmit banking data and keeps the information confidential.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-overspenders-pocketguard\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR OVERSPENDERS</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">PocketGuard</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-3\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/6ZXWy9DDs7S9X5kdjAPqg1Byaho=/640x599/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-3\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/-ACmvoAaDKmYXZW5PZ4-2OOWLB0=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/HA2KdrZq0T0c8dilbm9IvL5t74Q=/385x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 385w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8E7ttf_Fz50Um_4eaGv81MtEqYI=/470x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 470w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/fwnkGREU76vhIvtGU42zHGMkAxk=/640x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 640w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-25\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard made the cut because the app helps curb overspending. The company uses an algorithm to track your income, expenses, and savings goals to tell you how much you can spend every day. These spending limits make it easier to quit overspending and take control of your financial goals.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-26\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free basic budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cash flow at a glance</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Easy to use</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus has a cost</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No phone support</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-27\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard earned the top spot as best for overspenders because its features focus on helping users take control of overspending. The app offers a free and a paid, premium version, PocketGuard Plus.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-28\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started you need to connect your checking, savings, and credit card accounts. The app can see what you are spending, where to save, and reminds you when credit card bills are due. PocketGuard\'s \"In My Pocket\" feature uses an algorithm to identify how much money you can spend based on your income, upcoming bills, goals, recent spending, and budgets. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-29\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The app offers a smart bill reminder to keep track of due dates and shows where you may be able to negotiate for lower bills. There’s also an automated savings feature, which allows you to set a goal and save for it. PocketGuard automatically moves the money to an FDIC-insured bank account on your behalf.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-30\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus offers additional features like creating your categories, changing transaction dates, the ability to export data, tracking cash, managing ATM deposits and withdrawals, and splitting up transactions. The company also publishes an educational blog for additional opportunities to learn. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-31\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard prioritizes security with 256-bit encryption, a four-digit PIN, and biometrics like Touch ID and Face ID as another layer of protection.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-building-wealth-personal-capital\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR BUILDING WEALTH</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Personal Capital</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-4\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/Ld-My3aY50ecxQKmfmbN67iVh3A=/1233x479/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-4\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/jDRLOpu_7eOGCxOpD0JnT2ijh7k=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/o6kWG7eLhwClCKfxFvg10cl8Ois=/533x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 533w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/ZciaZyzZi-6C8-JiN0C5s4HvyW4=/766x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 766w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vTN2ZotUOIi4wuW2BKJcllWrCgs=/1233x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 1233w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-34\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital scores high because the company offers the best free tools for wealth building. You can sync your financial accounts in one place to track your <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/networth.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">net worth</a>, plan for the future with the Retirement Planner, and use the Fee Analyzer to check portfolio fees.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-35\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/w/wealthmanagement.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">wealth management</a> app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Retirement Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Education Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Net worth tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Fee Analyzer tool for your portfolio</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Less focused on budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No option to manually add transactions for budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Sales calls for wealth management services</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-36\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital lands at the top of our list with the best app for building wealth. You can use the product’s dashboards to sync accounts for a complete picture of your finances. The company’s primary app is free, with the option to add investment management services for 0.89% of your money for accounts under $1 million.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-37\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Unfortunately, Personal Capital doesn’t allow you to manually add budgeting transactions, but you can manually add investments without syncing those accounts. You can use Personal Capital’s budgeting tools to see your total income and expenses every month. While you can’t create specific goals, you can add a budget, compare to previous months, and see your spending by categories. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Although the company’s budgeting features aren’t as comprehensive as others, Personal Capital does offer better <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/investing.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">investing</a> tools. You can use the dashboard to see changes to your net worth over time, and Personal Capital’s Fee Analyzer gives you a closer look into your portfolio fees. You may also prepare for the future with the company’s Retirement Planner tool or save for college with the Education Planner tool. Personal Capital’s blog, Daily Capital, covers a range of financial planning topics for beginners to more experienced users alike.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-39\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital protects your data with encryption, fraud protection, and robust authentication. No one has access to your individual login credentials, and the company’s partnership with Yodlee, a veteran financial technology company, offers another layer of security.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-couples-zeta\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR COUPLES </span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Zeta</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-5\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3RVsF6IgRqA52h4uof95dCnPPGA=/960x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-5\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vkfrxfR7MQxbepeTr3U1hgYFACA=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8Vt8zOjWFJFMvDzHpk6Oc7v3y-g=/465x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 465w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/QLqj0nEH5_BqoqkMxh_HXHD5yF8=/630x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 630w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/OScioWYq3rzIjKKBAFdJKpxc2aw=/960x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 960w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-42\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta is one of the few free budgeting apps designed specifically for couples, joint finances or not. The app caters to all types of couples, including those who are living together, engaged, married, or new parents. You can sync various accounts to track spending, see your net worth, and manage bills together.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-43\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You can also sign up for a joint no-fee banking account and cards with features like early access to direct deposit, digital checks, access to the MoneyPass ATM network, contactless payments, and bill pay. All of these enhanced features make Zeta our choice as best for couples.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-44\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app and no-fee joint bank account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Designed for all types of couples</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Low APY for joint account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product recommendations</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-45\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta earns a spot on our list because the free budgeting app caters to all types of couples. The product also offers a free joint bank account to manage spending and paying bills together. Zeta’s Money Manager app and Joint Cards are free, but the company may offer paid services in the future. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-46\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Money Manager app allows you to sync accounts or manually add data for a shared view of your finances. The app can create budgets, track spending, set up joint goals, and manage bills. A few standout features include sharing controls, shared and personal budgets, bill reminders, and more. Zeta offers monthly insights on your finances and how you can make improvements. Zeta’s Money Date Mag, an online publication covering love and money in the modern age, includes articles to boost your financial knowledge.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-47\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Joint Cards offer bank account access with FDIC insurance through LendingClub Bank, no monthly fees or minimums, and 0.14% APY. The account provides special features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay. The company uses state-of-the-art, bank-level security to keep your data safe. They don’t store your financial logins, and the company uses two-factor authentication and data encrypted databases.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"article-outro_1-0\" class=\"comp article-container article-outro mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"article-outro__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page--commerce expert-content article-outro__content prm-sc-page mntl-sc-page mntl-block\">\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"faqs\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">FAQs</span></h2>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-1\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Are Budgeting Apps? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">A budgeting app is a software application that you may access from your computer, tablet, or mobile device to track your personal finances. This may include tracking your income, expenses, savings, debt payoff, investing, or a combination to improve your <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/financial-health.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">financial health</a>. Budgeting apps are different from accounting software, which is typically for a business’s income and expenses.  </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting apps may sync with your financial accounts to offer an overview of your situation as changes happen. The most common use of budgeting apps is to track spending through a synced checking account. Many people aren’t aware of how much money they spend every month, which can make changes more difficult. A budgeting app may organize spending history into categories to identify trends, making the user aware of their habits over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-4\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Should I Pay for an App or Use a Free One? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">When it comes to budgeting, everyone has their own preferences, including the willingness to invest money in a subscription-based budgeting app. Both free and subscription-based budgeting apps have pros and cons to consider. While spending money to improve your budget may seem counterintuitive, a premium app could be worth the cost if you make long-term changes. In some cases, the monthly or annual fee could pay for itself, but this may not be true for all subscription-based budgeting apps. A free 30-day trial is the easiest way to see if an app is worth the investment. If you enjoy using the app and feel motivated to continue, the monthly or annual fee could pay off. After all, the best budgeting system is one you are willing to stick with over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-6\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Features Should I Look For? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most budgeting apps offer the ability to sync your bank accounts. You may collect your income and <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/consumer-spending.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">consumer spending</a> data into the app. Many apps can track your spending and organize your expenses into categories, which allows you to see trends over time. These features may make it easier to understand your spending habits and make better choices. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-8\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some apps take it a step further with automated <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/savings.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">savings</a>, suggestions to save money, bill alerts, access to credit scores, and investing features. For apps with a savings component, you should make sure the account is FDIC-insured. You may also consider the account’s APY and how it compares to high-interest online savings accounts, which may also offer free budgeting tools. Depending on how much money you’re saving, it could be better to switch to an online, tech-focused bank offering a higher APY.     </span></p>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"how-we-chose-the-best-budgeting-apps\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-9\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">How We Chose the Best Budgeting Apps </span></h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting is a challenge for many people. While many folks want to reel in spending, it can be tedious to manually track expenses with a spreadsheet, which makes giving up all too easy. Luckily, there are budgeting apps to automate the process. The only problem is, the market is flooded with free and subscription-based budgeting apps, and most people don’t have the time or energy to spend a month testing each out. Fortunately, we have done the heavy lifting for you. To create our roundup of the best budgeting apps, we considered 15 of the best companies on the market. We compared each app’s budgeting functionality, pricing, free trials, and user reviews. We compared the product features, educational tools, security, and how each app accesses your financial data. All of our picks are free, offer a free version, or have a free trial, so you won’t have to waste money on a budgeting app that doesn’t suit your needs. </span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/best-budgeting-apps-5085405\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Best Budgeting Apps','','publish','open','open','','best-budgeting-apps','','','2021-04-12 20:58:24','2021-04-12 20:58:24','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?p=1276',0,'post','',0),(1277,1,'2021-04-12 20:38:16','2021-04-12 20:38:16','<!-- wp:divi/placeholder /-->','Best Budgeting Apps','','inherit','closed','closed','','1276-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 20:38:16','2021-04-12 20:38:16','',1276,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1276-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1279,1,'2021-04-12 20:54:00','2021-04-12 20:54:00','','Budget apps','','inherit','open','closed','','budget-apps','','','2021-04-12 20:54:00','2021-04-12 20:54:00','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Budget-apps.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1280,1,'2021-04-12 20:58:24','2021-04-12 20:58:24','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Best Budgeting Apps</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Budget-apps-1024x683.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1279 aligncenter size-large\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 26px;\">Manage your money with these budgeting apps</span></p>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div class=\"content-ad-wrap\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-115\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></div>\n<hr class=\"clear\" />\n<div class=\"loc article-intro article-content__description article-container expert-content \" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most people would prefer to spend less and save more, but the day-to-day reality of work, family life, and other commitments makes it impractical, if not seemingly impossible. Let’s face it, it’s tough to find the time or motivation for budgeting, and some folks skip it altogether.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">For these and many other reasons, budgeting apps have become increasingly popular over the past decade. This software makes it easier to monitor your spending and saving habits by linking accounts to an application and tracking your cash flow. These apps, free or paid, offer a range of features to improve your finances.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We reviewed 15 of the best budgeting apps on the market to find the best options for new or experienced budgeters. We compared cost, functionality, features, security, reviews, and more. These are the best options to improve your budget.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n<div id=\"product-roundup-content__summary-list_1-0\" class=\"comp js-toc-appear product-roundup-content__summary-list summary-list--roundup summary-list\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"summary-list\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h2 class=\"summary-list__title\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The 6 Best Budgeting Apps of 2021</span></h2>\n<ul class=\"summary-list__content\">\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Overall:</strong> <a href=\"https://youneedabudget.a4xxmk.net/c/2104074/869639/10892?subid1=5085405&amp;subid2=nda72bc70c3d84b3cad2762dad847928f20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" data-affiliate-link-rewriter=\"subid1=${DOC_ID}&amp;subid2=${REQUEST_ID}\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You Need a Budget (YNAB)</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Free Budgeting App:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.mint.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Cash Flow:</strong> <a href=\"https://simplifi.sjv.io/c/2104074/946869/11855?subId1=5085405&amp;sharedid=Investopedia&amp;subid1=5085405&amp;subid2=nda72bc70c3d84b3cad2762dad847928f20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" data-affiliate-link-rewriter=\"subid1=${DOC_ID}&amp;subid2=${REQUEST_ID}\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Overspenders:</strong> <a href=\"https://pocketguard.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Building Wealth:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.personalcapital.com/get-started/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Couples:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.askzeta.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta</a></span></li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-body\">\n<div class=\"loc article-left-nav article-body__left-nav product-roundup__left-nav js-sticky-container\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<div id=\"product-roundup__toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc-widget product-roundup__toc sticky-toc--finance sticky-toc--base mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-desktop-bp=\"54em\" data-chop-desktop=\"false\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\"></div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-overall-you-need-a-budget-ynab\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST OVERALL </span></span></h3>\n<h3 class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">You Need a Budget (YNAB)</span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/PqHgTIY395mHf1x4m1YweQ58QN0=/1292x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/MrvDttJe1b-DFuDYHwOn4Xv1n7E=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/KZEpDwjtLbaGsu4P-QByHyIyW1g=/548x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 548w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/n0s9d_Ym0LKW3WYngdKFykUrpSY=/796x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 796w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/bjhJaHqJA7IBXwXAoqx3oiZ5fGo=/1292x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 1292w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-link-closest-header=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".mntl-sc-commerce-btn-list__btn\"></div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You Need a Budget, or YNAB, earns the top spot because of the company’s renowned budgeting philosophy and reputation. YNAB says new budgeters typically save $600 in their first two months and more than $6,000 in their first year. Although YNAB is the most costly option on our list, the company offers a 34-day free trial and a 100% no-risk, money-back guarantee.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Complete <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/budget.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">budget</a> makeover</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 34-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">100% money-back guarantee</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong customer service and comprehensive education</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$84 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">More time-intensive to learn</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Recent sync issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB rises to the top of our list because of its budgeting philosophy and money-back guarantee. The company offers a free trial for 34 days (no credit card required) and after that, the cost is $84 per year. If you prefer to pay less upfront, the cost is $11.99 per month.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB offers the ability to sync your bank accounts, import your data from a file, or manually enter each transaction. To begin, the company suggests learning the basics about the app through video courses, a live workshop, or reading a guide. YNAB offers a proactive budgeting approach, rather than tracking what you have already spent, like some competitors.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-6\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">After signing up, you create your first budget and assign every dollar a purpose, like your rent or car payment, for example. The goal is to eventually get at least one month ahead, so you’re spending money you earned from 30 days ago. The company offers extensive educational resources and customer support to keep you on track.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB says privacy and security are its top priority. The company protects your information by using bank-level encryption for all data, best practices for password security, third-party audits, and more.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-free-budgeting-app-mint\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FREE BUDGETING APP</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Mint</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-1\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/kynqNmNVT3Lhi0x3NZMGVV3GFUE=/994x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-1\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/y9IXs9i9-z1S1ZD0fa84xcpM6Qg=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/P_VB8LUd6EebQxo7pJcVqqa5zR8=/473x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 473w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/D__LzSNFfDX9585CEhpJ1co8uOY=/646x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 646w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/VaZpESCrNo2hXP0A4qn7OkX1xA4=/994x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 994w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/082216/how-mintcom-makes-money-intu.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint</a> stands out for a few reasons. It’s one of the most popular budgeting apps available, with over 25 million users. The app is free and easy to use for budgeters of all levels. You can also set up bill payment reminders, track investments, and access your TransUnion credit score—all of which makes Mint our choice for best free budgeting app.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-11\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free TransUnion <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/credit_score.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">credit scores</a></span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Investment tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product advertisements</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Spending categorization could be better</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-12\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint offers the best-known free budgeting app on the market. It’s a great <a href=\"https://www.kubera.com/blog/personal-capital-vs-mint-vs-kubera\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">option</a> for anyone looking to improve their spending habits. The app is free but you may see targeted financial product advertisements. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-13\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You may sync your financial accounts within the app or manually add transactions. Mint allows you to see all your accounts in one place and keep track of your spending on a daily basis. The app automatically organizes your spending, so you can see totals by category at a glance. Mint also offers monthly bill tracking, including payment reminders to avoid late fees. The app also offers the ability to keep track of your investments and check <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/portfolio.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">portfolio</a> fees. Mint offers a few education resources like a home affordability calculator, loan repayment calculator, and blog with a variety of personal finance topics. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-14\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint protects your data through features like security scanning with Verisign, multi-factor authentication, and touch ID mobile access. The company stores your login information in a separate database with multiple layers of hardware and software encryption.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-cash-flow-simplifi-by-quicken\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR CASH FLOW</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Simplifi by Quicken</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-2\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3HWXtn-XmigeKZylVDR8Q9xLSmk=/1012x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-2\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/aIcmtqophkrYNpL3SZXjlFhYbbw=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/5-J7AK3djgITfwIiSfiWOBYUJgk=/478x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 478w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/mEWtJyO3pPgb0YAkrGiikL9vSkA=/656x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 656w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/cPO4m_gc6KNxQTiUKUaMZ7SwFJk=/1012x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 1012w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-17\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken earns high marks because it offers a personalized spending plan with real-time updates of how much you have left to spend throughout the month. The app syncs your bank accounts to show you where you stand and your progress on financial goals. Simplifi by Quicken also tracks your monthly bills and subscriptions, including those you don’t use.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-18\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong cash flow tools</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Watch lists for mindful spending</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 30-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$35.99 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-19\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken ranks best for cash flow because of the app’s effective tracking capabilities. It’s the best option for staying on top of how much you can spend between your paychecks. The app offers a free 30-day trial and then you will pay $2.99 per month (billed annually at $35.99) or $3.99 per month if you choose not to pay upfront.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-20\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started, you have to sync bank accounts, and then you will have a complete snapshot of your finances. The app automatically categorizes your spending, tracks recurring bills and subscriptions, and stays on top of upcoming expenses. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-21\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">One standout feature is the app’s custom watchlists, which allow you to limit spending by category or payee. Also, the custom spending plan monitors cash flow to make sure you never spend more than you make. Simplifi by Quicken offers tips while you’re using the app, but there’s also a blog full of educational content at your fingertips. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-22\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Security and privacy are top priorities for Quicken, the app’s parent company. Quicken has been trusted with sensitive financial data for decades (since 1985) and continues to work on new security measures. The app uses 256-bit encryption to transmit banking data and keeps the information confidential.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-overspenders-pocketguard\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR OVERSPENDERS</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">PocketGuard</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-3\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/6ZXWy9DDs7S9X5kdjAPqg1Byaho=/640x599/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-3\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/-ACmvoAaDKmYXZW5PZ4-2OOWLB0=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/HA2KdrZq0T0c8dilbm9IvL5t74Q=/385x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 385w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8E7ttf_Fz50Um_4eaGv81MtEqYI=/470x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 470w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/fwnkGREU76vhIvtGU42zHGMkAxk=/640x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 640w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-25\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard made the cut because the app helps curb overspending. The company uses an algorithm to track your income, expenses, and savings goals to tell you how much you can spend every day. These spending limits make it easier to quit overspending and take control of your financial goals.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-26\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free basic budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cash flow at a glance</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Easy to use</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus has a cost</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No phone support</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-27\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard earned the top spot as best for overspenders because its features focus on helping users take control of overspending. The app offers a free and a paid, premium version, PocketGuard Plus.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-28\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started you need to connect your checking, savings, and credit card accounts. The app can see what you are spending, where to save, and reminds you when credit card bills are due. PocketGuard\'s \"In My Pocket\" feature uses an algorithm to identify how much money you can spend based on your income, upcoming bills, goals, recent spending, and budgets. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-29\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The app offers a smart bill reminder to keep track of due dates and shows where you may be able to negotiate for lower bills. There’s also an automated savings feature, which allows you to set a goal and save for it. PocketGuard automatically moves the money to an FDIC-insured bank account on your behalf.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-30\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus offers additional features like creating your categories, changing transaction dates, the ability to export data, tracking cash, managing ATM deposits and withdrawals, and splitting up transactions. The company also publishes an educational blog for additional opportunities to learn. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-31\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard prioritizes security with 256-bit encryption, a four-digit PIN, and biometrics like Touch ID and Face ID as another layer of protection.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-building-wealth-personal-capital\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR BUILDING WEALTH</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Personal Capital</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-4\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/Ld-My3aY50ecxQKmfmbN67iVh3A=/1233x479/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-4\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/jDRLOpu_7eOGCxOpD0JnT2ijh7k=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/o6kWG7eLhwClCKfxFvg10cl8Ois=/533x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 533w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/ZciaZyzZi-6C8-JiN0C5s4HvyW4=/766x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 766w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vTN2ZotUOIi4wuW2BKJcllWrCgs=/1233x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 1233w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-34\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital scores high because the company offers the best free tools for wealth building. You can sync your financial accounts in one place to track your <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/networth.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">net worth</a>, plan for the future with the Retirement Planner, and use the Fee Analyzer to check portfolio fees.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-35\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/w/wealthmanagement.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">wealth management</a> app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Retirement Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Education Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Net worth tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Fee Analyzer tool for your portfolio</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Less focused on budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No option to manually add transactions for budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Sales calls for wealth management services</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-36\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital lands at the top of our list with the best app for building wealth. You can use the product’s dashboards to sync accounts for a complete picture of your finances. The company’s primary app is free, with the option to add investment management services for 0.89% of your money for accounts under $1 million.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-37\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Unfortunately, Personal Capital doesn’t allow you to manually add budgeting transactions, but you can manually add investments without syncing those accounts. You can use Personal Capital’s budgeting tools to see your total income and expenses every month. While you can’t create specific goals, you can add a budget, compare to previous months, and see your spending by categories. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Although the company’s budgeting features aren’t as comprehensive as others, Personal Capital does offer better <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/investing.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">investing</a> tools. You can use the dashboard to see changes to your net worth over time, and Personal Capital’s Fee Analyzer gives you a closer look into your portfolio fees. You may also prepare for the future with the company’s Retirement Planner tool or save for college with the Education Planner tool. Personal Capital’s blog, Daily Capital, covers a range of financial planning topics for beginners to more experienced users alike.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-39\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital protects your data with encryption, fraud protection, and robust authentication. No one has access to your individual login credentials, and the company’s partnership with Yodlee, a veteran financial technology company, offers another layer of security.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-couples-zeta\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR COUPLES </span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Zeta</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-5\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3RVsF6IgRqA52h4uof95dCnPPGA=/960x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-5\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vkfrxfR7MQxbepeTr3U1hgYFACA=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8Vt8zOjWFJFMvDzHpk6Oc7v3y-g=/465x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 465w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/QLqj0nEH5_BqoqkMxh_HXHD5yF8=/630x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 630w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/OScioWYq3rzIjKKBAFdJKpxc2aw=/960x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 960w\" /></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-42\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta is one of the few free budgeting apps designed specifically for couples, joint finances or not. The app caters to all types of couples, including those who are living together, engaged, married, or new parents. You can sync various accounts to track spending, see your net worth, and manage bills together.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-43\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You can also sign up for a joint no-fee banking account and cards with features like early access to direct deposit, digital checks, access to the MoneyPass ATM network, contactless payments, and bill pay. All of these enhanced features make Zeta our choice as best for couples.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-44\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app and no-fee joint bank account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Designed for all types of couples</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Low APY for joint account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product recommendations</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-45\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta earns a spot on our list because the free budgeting app caters to all types of couples. The product also offers a free joint bank account to manage spending and paying bills together. Zeta’s Money Manager app and Joint Cards are free, but the company may offer paid services in the future. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-46\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Money Manager app allows you to sync accounts or manually add data for a shared view of your finances. The app can create budgets, track spending, set up joint goals, and manage bills. A few standout features include sharing controls, shared and personal budgets, bill reminders, and more. Zeta offers monthly insights on your finances and how you can make improvements. Zeta’s Money Date Mag, an online publication covering love and money in the modern age, includes articles to boost your financial knowledge.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-47\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Joint Cards offer bank account access with FDIC insurance through LendingClub Bank, no monthly fees or minimums, and 0.14% APY. The account provides special features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay. The company uses state-of-the-art, bank-level security to keep your data safe. They don’t store your financial logins, and the company uses two-factor authentication and data encrypted databases.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"article-outro_1-0\" class=\"comp article-container article-outro mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"article-outro__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page--commerce expert-content article-outro__content prm-sc-page mntl-sc-page mntl-block\">\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"faqs\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">FAQs</span></h2>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-1\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Are Budgeting Apps? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">A budgeting app is a software application that you may access from your computer, tablet, or mobile device to track your personal finances. This may include tracking your income, expenses, savings, debt payoff, investing, or a combination to improve your <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/financial-health.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">financial health</a>. Budgeting apps are different from accounting software, which is typically for a business’s income and expenses.  </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting apps may sync with your financial accounts to offer an overview of your situation as changes happen. The most common use of budgeting apps is to track spending through a synced checking account. Many people aren’t aware of how much money they spend every month, which can make changes more difficult. A budgeting app may organize spending history into categories to identify trends, making the user aware of their habits over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-4\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Should I Pay for an App or Use a Free One? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">When it comes to budgeting, everyone has their own preferences, including the willingness to invest money in a subscription-based budgeting app. Both free and subscription-based budgeting apps have pros and cons to consider. While spending money to improve your budget may seem counterintuitive, a premium app could be worth the cost if you make long-term changes. In some cases, the monthly or annual fee could pay for itself, but this may not be true for all subscription-based budgeting apps. A free 30-day trial is the easiest way to see if an app is worth the investment. If you enjoy using the app and feel motivated to continue, the monthly or annual fee could pay off. After all, the best budgeting system is one you are willing to stick with over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-6\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Features Should I Look For? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most budgeting apps offer the ability to sync your bank accounts. You may collect your income and <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/consumer-spending.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">consumer spending</a> data into the app. Many apps can track your spending and organize your expenses into categories, which allows you to see trends over time. These features may make it easier to understand your spending habits and make better choices. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-8\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some apps take it a step further with automated <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/savings.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">savings</a>, suggestions to save money, bill alerts, access to credit scores, and investing features. For apps with a savings component, you should make sure the account is FDIC-insured. You may also consider the account’s APY and how it compares to high-interest online savings accounts, which may also offer free budgeting tools. Depending on how much money you’re saving, it could be better to switch to an online, tech-focused bank offering a higher APY.     </span></p>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"how-we-chose-the-best-budgeting-apps\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-9\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">How We Chose the Best Budgeting Apps </span></h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting is a challenge for many people. While many folks want to reel in spending, it can be tedious to manually track expenses with a spreadsheet, which makes giving up all too easy. Luckily, there are budgeting apps to automate the process. The only problem is, the market is flooded with free and subscription-based budgeting apps, and most people don’t have the time or energy to spend a month testing each out. Fortunately, we have done the heavy lifting for you. To create our roundup of the best budgeting apps, we considered 15 of the best companies on the market. We compared each app’s budgeting functionality, pricing, free trials, and user reviews. We compared the product features, educational tools, security, and how each app accesses your financial data. All of our picks are free, offer a free version, or have a free trial, so you won’t have to waste money on a budgeting app that doesn’t suit your needs. </span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/best-budgeting-apps-5085405\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Best Budgeting Apps','','inherit','closed','closed','','1276-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 20:58:24','2021-04-12 20:58:24','',1276,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1276-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1282,1,'2021-04-12 21:01:53','2021-04-12 21:01:53','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"0px|||||\"]<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Best Budgeting Apps</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"||0px|||\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<p><span><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Budget-apps-1024x683.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1279 aligncenter size-large\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Manage your money with these budgeting apps</strong></span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most people would prefer to spend less and save more, but the day-to-day reality of work, family life, and other commitments makes it impractical, if not seemingly impossible. Let’s face it, it’s tough to find the time or motivation for budgeting, and some folks skip it altogether.</span></p>\n<div class=\"loc article-intro article-content__description article-container expert-content \">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">For these and many other reasons, budgeting apps have become increasingly popular over the past decade. This software makes it easier to monitor your spending and saving habits by linking accounts to an application and tracking your cash flow. These apps, free or paid, offer a range of features to improve your finances.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We reviewed 15 of the best budgeting apps on the market to find the best options for new or experienced budgeters. We compared cost, functionality, features, security, reviews, and more. These are the best options to improve your budget.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n<div id=\"product-roundup-content__summary-list_1-0\" class=\"comp js-toc-appear product-roundup-content__summary-list summary-list--roundup summary-list\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 class=\"summary-list__title\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The 6 Best Budgeting Apps of 2021</span></h2>\n<ul class=\"summary-list__content\">\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Overall:</strong> You Need a Budget (YNAB)</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Free Budgeting App:</strong> Mint</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Cash Flow:</strong> Simplifi by Quicken</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Overspenders:</strong> PocketGuard</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Building Wealth:</strong> Personal Capital</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Couples:</strong> Zeta</span></li>\n</ul>\n<p><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large; color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>BEST OVERALL</strong></span><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-body\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<h3 class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">You Need a Budget (YNAB)</span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/PqHgTIY395mHf1x4m1YweQ58QN0=/1292x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/MrvDttJe1b-DFuDYHwOn4Xv1n7E=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/KZEpDwjtLbaGsu4P-QByHyIyW1g=/548x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 548w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/n0s9d_Ym0LKW3WYngdKFykUrpSY=/796x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 796w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/bjhJaHqJA7IBXwXAoqx3oiZ5fGo=/1292x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 1292w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-link-closest-header=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".mntl-sc-commerce-btn-list__btn\"></div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You Need a Budget, or YNAB, earns the top spot because of the company’s renowned budgeting philosophy and reputation. YNAB says new budgeters typically save $600 in their first two months and more than $6,000 in their first year. Although YNAB is the most costly option on our list, the company offers a 34-day free trial and a 100% no-risk, money-back guarantee.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Complete budget makeover</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 34-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">100% money-back guarantee</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong customer service and comprehensive education</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$84 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">More time-intensive to learn</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Recent sync issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB rises to the top of our list because of its budgeting philosophy and money-back guarantee. The company offers a free trial for 34 days (no credit card required) and after that, the cost is $84 per year. If you prefer to pay less upfront, the cost is $11.99 per month.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB offers the ability to sync your bank accounts, import your data from a file, or manually enter each transaction. To begin, the company suggests learning the basics about the app through video courses, a live workshop, or reading a guide. YNAB offers a proactive budgeting approach, rather than tracking what you have already spent, like some competitors.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-6\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">After signing up, you create your first budget and assign every dollar a purpose, like your rent or car payment, for example. The goal is to eventually get at least one month ahead, so you’re spending money you earned from 30 days ago. The company offers extensive educational resources and customer support to keep you on track.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB says privacy and security are its top priority. The company protects your information by using bank-level encryption for all data, best practices for password security, third-party audits, and more.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FREE BUDGETING APP</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Mint</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-1\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/kynqNmNVT3Lhi0x3NZMGVV3GFUE=/994x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-1\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/y9IXs9i9-z1S1ZD0fa84xcpM6Qg=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/P_VB8LUd6EebQxo7pJcVqqa5zR8=/473x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 473w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/D__LzSNFfDX9585CEhpJ1co8uOY=/646x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 646w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/VaZpESCrNo2hXP0A4qn7OkX1xA4=/994x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 994w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint stands out for a few reasons. It’s one of the most popular budgeting apps available, with over 25 million users. The app is free and easy to use for budgeters of all levels. You can also set up bill payment reminders, track investments, and access your TransUnion credit score—all of which makes Mint our choice for best free budgeting app.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-11\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free TransUnion credit scores</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Investment tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product advertisements</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Spending categorization could be better</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-12\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint offers the best-known free budgeting app on the market. It’s a great option for anyone looking to improve their spending habits. The app is free but you may see targeted financial product advertisements. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-13\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You may sync your financial accounts within the app or manually add transactions. Mint allows you to see all your accounts in one place and keep track of your spending on a daily basis. The app automatically organizes your spending, so you can see totals by category at a glance. Mint also offers monthly bill tracking, including payment reminders to avoid late fees. The app also offers the ability to keep track of your investments and check portfolio fees. Mint offers a few education resources like a home affordability calculator, loan repayment calculator, and blog with a variety of personal finance topics. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-14\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint protects your data through features like security scanning with Verisign, multi-factor authentication, and touch ID mobile access. The company stores your login information in a separate database with multiple layers of hardware and software encryption.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR CASH FLOW</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Simplifi by Quicken</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-2\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3HWXtn-XmigeKZylVDR8Q9xLSmk=/1012x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-2\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/aIcmtqophkrYNpL3SZXjlFhYbbw=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/5-J7AK3djgITfwIiSfiWOBYUJgk=/478x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 478w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/mEWtJyO3pPgb0YAkrGiikL9vSkA=/656x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 656w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/cPO4m_gc6KNxQTiUKUaMZ7SwFJk=/1012x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 1012w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-17\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken earns high marks because it offers a personalized spending plan with real-time updates of how much you have left to spend throughout the month. The app syncs your bank accounts to show you where you stand and your progress on financial goals. Simplifi by Quicken also tracks your monthly bills and subscriptions, including those you don’t use.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-18\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong cash flow tools</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Watch lists for mindful spending</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 30-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$35.99 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-19\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken ranks best for cash flow because of the app’s effective tracking capabilities. It’s the best option for staying on top of how much you can spend between your paychecks. The app offers a free 30-day trial and then you will pay $2.99 per month (billed annually at $35.99) or $3.99 per month if you choose not to pay upfront.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-20\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started, you have to sync bank accounts, and then you will have a complete snapshot of your finances. The app automatically categorizes your spending, tracks recurring bills and subscriptions, and stays on top of upcoming expenses. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-21\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">One standout feature is the app’s custom watchlists, which allow you to limit spending by category or payee. Also, the custom spending plan monitors cash flow to make sure you never spend more than you make. Simplifi by Quicken offers tips while you’re using the app, but there’s also a blog full of educational content at your fingertips. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-22\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Security and privacy are top priorities for Quicken, the app’s parent company. Quicken has been trusted with sensitive financial data for decades (since 1985) and continues to work on new security measures. The app uses 256-bit encryption to transmit banking data and keeps the information confidential.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR OVERSPENDERS</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">PocketGuard</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-3\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/6ZXWy9DDs7S9X5kdjAPqg1Byaho=/640x599/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-3\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/-ACmvoAaDKmYXZW5PZ4-2OOWLB0=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/HA2KdrZq0T0c8dilbm9IvL5t74Q=/385x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 385w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8E7ttf_Fz50Um_4eaGv81MtEqYI=/470x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 470w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/fwnkGREU76vhIvtGU42zHGMkAxk=/640x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 640w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-25\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard made the cut because the app helps curb overspending. The company uses an algorithm to track your income, expenses, and savings goals to tell you how much you can spend every day. These spending limits make it easier to quit overspending and take control of your financial goals.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-26\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free basic budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cash flow at a glance</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Easy to use</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus has a cost</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No phone support</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-27\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard earned the top spot as best for overspenders because its features focus on helping users take control of overspending. The app offers a free and a paid, premium version, PocketGuard Plus.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-28\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started you need to connect your checking, savings, and credit card accounts. The app can see what you are spending, where to save, and reminds you when credit card bills are due. PocketGuard\'s \"In My Pocket\" feature uses an algorithm to identify how much money you can spend based on your income, upcoming bills, goals, recent spending, and budgets. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-29\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The app offers a smart bill reminder to keep track of due dates and shows where you may be able to negotiate for lower bills. There’s also an automated savings feature, which allows you to set a goal and save for it. PocketGuard automatically moves the money to an FDIC-insured bank account on your behalf.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-30\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus offers additional features like creating your categories, changing transaction dates, the ability to export data, tracking cash, managing ATM deposits and withdrawals, and splitting up transactions. The company also publishes an educational blog for additional opportunities to learn. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-31\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard prioritizes security with 256-bit encryption, a four-digit PIN, and biometrics like Touch ID and Face ID as another layer of protection.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR BUILDING WEALTH</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Personal Capital</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-4\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/Ld-My3aY50ecxQKmfmbN67iVh3A=/1233x479/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-4\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/jDRLOpu_7eOGCxOpD0JnT2ijh7k=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/o6kWG7eLhwClCKfxFvg10cl8Ois=/533x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 533w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/ZciaZyzZi-6C8-JiN0C5s4HvyW4=/766x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 766w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vTN2ZotUOIi4wuW2BKJcllWrCgs=/1233x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 1233w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-34\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital scores high because the company offers the best free tools for wealth building. You can sync your financial accounts in one place to track your net worth, plan for the future with the Retirement Planner, and use the Fee Analyzer to check portfolio fees.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-35\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free wealth management app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Retirement Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Education Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Net worth tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Fee Analyzer tool for your portfolio</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Less focused on budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No option to manually add transactions for budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Sales calls for wealth management services</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-36\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital lands at the top of our list with the best app for building wealth. You can use the product’s dashboards to sync accounts for a complete picture of your finances. The company’s primary app is free, with the option to add investment management services for 0.89% of your money for accounts under $1 million.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-37\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Unfortunately, Personal Capital doesn’t allow you to manually add budgeting transactions, but you can manually add investments without syncing those accounts. You can use Personal Capital’s budgeting tools to see your total income and expenses every month. While you can’t create specific goals, you can add a budget, compare to previous months, and see your spending by categories. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Although the company’s budgeting features aren’t as comprehensive as others, Personal Capital does offer better investing tools. You can use the dashboard to see changes to your net worth over time, and Personal Capital’s Fee Analyzer gives you a closer look into your portfolio fees. You may also prepare for the future with the company’s Retirement Planner tool or save for college with the Education Planner tool. Personal Capital’s blog, Daily Capital, covers a range of financial planning topics for beginners to more experienced users alike.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-39\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital protects your data with encryption, fraud protection, and robust authentication. No one has access to your individual login credentials, and the company’s partnership with Yodlee, a veteran financial technology company, offers another layer of security.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR COUPLES </span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Zeta</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-5\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3RVsF6IgRqA52h4uof95dCnPPGA=/960x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-5\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vkfrxfR7MQxbepeTr3U1hgYFACA=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8Vt8zOjWFJFMvDzHpk6Oc7v3y-g=/465x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 465w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/QLqj0nEH5_BqoqkMxh_HXHD5yF8=/630x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 630w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/OScioWYq3rzIjKKBAFdJKpxc2aw=/960x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 960w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-42\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta is one of the few free budgeting apps designed specifically for couples, joint finances or not. The app caters to all types of couples, including those who are living together, engaged, married, or new parents. You can sync various accounts to track spending, see your net worth, and manage bills together.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-43\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You can also sign up for a joint no-fee banking account and cards with features like early access to direct deposit, digital checks, access to the MoneyPass ATM network, contactless payments, and bill pay. All of these enhanced features make Zeta our choice as best for couples.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-44\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app and no-fee joint bank account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Designed for all types of couples</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Low APY for joint account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product recommendations</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-45\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta earns a spot on our list because the free budgeting app caters to all types of couples. The product also offers a free joint bank account to manage spending and paying bills together. Zeta’s Money Manager app and Joint Cards are free, but the company may offer paid services in the future. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-46\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Money Manager app allows you to sync accounts or manually add data for a shared view of your finances. The app can create budgets, track spending, set up joint goals, and manage bills. A few standout features include sharing controls, shared and personal budgets, bill reminders, and more. Zeta offers monthly insights on your finances and how you can make improvements. Zeta’s Money Date Mag, an online publication covering love and money in the modern age, includes articles to boost your financial knowledge.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-47\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Joint Cards offer bank account access with FDIC insurance through LendingClub Bank, no monthly fees or minimums, and 0.14% APY. The account provides special features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay. The company uses state-of-the-art, bank-level security to keep your data safe. They don’t store your financial logins, and the company uses two-factor authentication and data encrypted databases.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"article-outro_1-0\" class=\"comp article-container article-outro mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"article-outro__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page--commerce expert-content article-outro__content prm-sc-page mntl-sc-page mntl-block\">\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"faqs\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">FAQs</span></h2>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-1\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Are Budgeting Apps? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">A budgeting app is a software application that you may access from your computer, tablet, or mobile device to track your personal finances. This may include tracking your income, expenses, savings, debt payoff, investing, or a combination to improve your financial health. Budgeting apps are different from accounting software, which is typically for a business’s income and expenses.  </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting apps may sync with your financial accounts to offer an overview of your situation as changes happen. The most common use of budgeting apps is to track spending through a synced checking account. Many people aren’t aware of how much money they spend every month, which can make changes more difficult. A budgeting app may organize spending history into categories to identify trends, making the user aware of their habits over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-4\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Should I Pay for an App or Use a Free One? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">When it comes to budgeting, everyone has their own preferences, including the willingness to invest money in a subscription-based budgeting app. Both free and subscription-based budgeting apps have pros and cons to consider. While spending money to improve your budget may seem counterintuitive, a premium app could be worth the cost if you make long-term changes. In some cases, the monthly or annual fee could pay for itself, but this may not be true for all subscription-based budgeting apps. A free 30-day trial is the easiest way to see if an app is worth the investment. If you enjoy using the app and feel motivated to continue, the monthly or annual fee could pay off. After all, the best budgeting system is one you are willing to stick with over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-6\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Features Should I Look For? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most budgeting apps offer the ability to sync your bank accounts. You may collect your income and consumer spending data into the app. Many apps can track your spending and organize your expenses into categories, which allows you to see trends over time. These features may make it easier to understand your spending habits and make better choices. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-8\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some apps take it a step further with automated savings, suggestions to save money, bill alerts, access to credit scores, and investing features. For apps with a savings component, you should make sure the account is FDIC-insured. You may also consider the account’s APY and how it compares to high-interest online savings accounts, which may also offer free budgeting tools. Depending on how much money you’re saving, it could be better to switch to an online, tech-focused bank offering a higher APY.     </span></p>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"how-we-chose-the-best-budgeting-apps\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-9\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">How We Chose the Best Budgeting Apps </span></h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting is a challenge for many people. While many folks want to reel in spending, it can be tedious to manually track expenses with a spreadsheet, which makes giving up all too easy. Luckily, there are budgeting apps to automate the process. The only problem is, the market is flooded with free and subscription-based budgeting apps, and most people don’t have the time or energy to spend a month testing each out. Fortunately, we have done the heavy lifting for you. To create our roundup of the best budgeting apps, we considered 15 of the best companies on the market. We compared each app’s budgeting functionality, pricing, free trials, and user reviews. We compared the product features, educational tools, security, and how each app accesses your financial data. All of our picks are free, offer a free version, or have a free trial, so you won’t have to waste money on a budgeting app that doesn’t suit your needs. </span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To read the full article,</span> <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/best-budgeting-apps-5085405\">click here</a>.</span></div>\n</div>\n</div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Best Budgeting Apps','','publish','closed','closed','','best-budgeting-apps','','','2021-04-14 00:58:52','2021-04-14 00:58:52','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?page_id=1282',0,'page','',0),(1283,1,'2021-04-12 21:01:53','2021-04-12 21:01:53','<!-- wp:divi/placeholder /-->','Best Budgeting Apps','','inherit','closed','closed','','1282-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 21:01:53','2021-04-12 21:01:53','',1282,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1282-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1286,1,'2021-04-12 21:22:21','2021-04-12 21:22:21','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"0px||0px|||\"]<h1 class=\"post-title entry-title\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>A Performance Expert\'s 5 Nonnegotiables For Productivity That Lasts</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"17px|||||\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Productivity.jpg\" width=\"411\" height=\"240\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1290 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you\'re in a slump of some sort (be it work-related, academic, or a mere dip in creativity), you\'re certainly not alone. Everyone can feel unmotivated at times, and while it does take some work to get back on track, the venture isn\'t impossible. In fact, you can actually biohack your way to peak productivity with a few lifestyle shifts.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Take it from Steven Kotler: According to this performance expert, <em>New York Times </em>bestselling author of <em>The Art of Impossible</em><em>,</em> and founder and executive director of the Flow Research Collective, enhancing productivity requires both a physical and cognitive approach. \"If you\'re interested in peak performance, you have to be doing these things. Otherwise, you can\'t even get into the game,\" he says on this episode of the mindbodygreen podcast. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Below, the five tips Kotler considers nonnegotiable: </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-fqDyKHlhC\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">1.</span> Focus on sleep. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We\'ll start with the most physical: According to Kotler, sleep is paramount for productivity (and other experts would agree). In fact, lack of sleep has even been associated with cognitive decline.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"You need seven to eight hours of sleep a night. It\'s just what you need,\" he says. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-9IxrTM5qnJ\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">2.</span> Find social support. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"You actually need social support,\" Kotler adds. Studies have shown loneliness is associated with more than double the risk of cognitive decline. In terms of everyday performance, this makes sense: \"Think about getting in a fight with your boyfriend, girlfriend, wife, brother, or boss,\" says Kotler. \"Think about your energy levels the next day—you\'re tapped. It\'s a big break on peak performance.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">But just as those negative social experiences can inhibit your productivity, high-quality connections can lift your spirits (and performance) right back up. Do what you can to foster the relationships in your life, even on a virtual plane, and your productivity may thrive. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-xN_LsiGEoc\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">3.</span> Manage your anxiety levels. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"Anxiety is a huge break on people,\" he says. That\'s why Kotler says you need tools to manage your anxiety. He cites three specific ways to approach those feelings: mindfulness, gratitude, and exercise. \"The research shows you need one of these a day.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Whether it\'s a five-minute gratitude practice, breathwork session, or round of HIIT, approaching one of these a day can help enhance your performance levels. During times of crisis (like, say, during a pandemic), you might even need two out of the three each day to dial down anxiety and kick-start productivity, says Kotler. The specifics may differ for everyone, but any way you can help manage anxiety is key. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-Sgb_fZWoP0\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">4.</span> Set process-oriented goals. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The next step, says Kotler, is to set manageable goals. Now, you do need high-level aspirations, but the key to productivity is to set process-oriented goals. Those long-term desires have their time and place, sure, but everyday performance relies on those mission-level, tangible goals. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Take this long-term goal, for instance: <em>I want to be the greatest author in history.</em> \"That\'s a moving target. It\'s an aim,\" says Kotler. \"You want to chunk those down into hard, one- to five-year goals.\" Try something like: <em>I\'d like to write a </em>New York Times<em> bestseller. </em>Tangible, specific, and process-oriented. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">With that goal, though, it\'s even more helpful to dissect it into clear, daily goal lists. It\'s like a web of goal-setting: \"Everything has to point in the same direction,\" says Kotler. \"Your high goals have to flow into your mission-level goals and your clear, daily goals.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-7a5DVqM4jR\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">5.</span> Discover your intrinsic motivations. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"There are five major intrinsic motivators that matter,\" says Kotler. Curiosity, purpose, autonomy, purpose, and mastery: \"Curiosity is our basic fuel that builds into passion. [Then] passion is attached to a cause greater than ourselves, which becomes purpose. Once you have purpose, your body literally wants the autonomy and freedom to pursue that purpose. And once you\'re pursuing that purpose, you want to master the skills to really pursue that purpose.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">They\'re all aligned, and one cannot continue on without the other. That said, if you are lacking in any of these intrinsic motivators, your productivity might suffer down the line. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-VdbLl014c8\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The takeaway. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We admit, it can be difficult to focus on all five of these factors each and every day. But if you\'re hoping to strengthen your performance, perhaps take the time to enhance them one by one. According to Kotler, you\'re essentially biohacking your productivity. Says the expert: \"When we screw up peak performance, it\'s nothing more than getting our biology to work for us rather than against us.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/performance-experts-nonnegotiables-for-productivity\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','A Performance Expert\'s 5 Nonnegotiables For Productivity That Lasts','','publish','closed','closed','','how-to-avoid-a-low-home-appraisal','','','2021-04-13 17:04:21','2021-04-13 17:04:21','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?page_id=1286',0,'page','',0),(1287,1,'2021-04-12 21:22:21','2021-04-12 21:22:21','<!-- wp:divi/placeholder /-->','How to avoid a low home appraisal','','inherit','closed','closed','','1286-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 21:22:21','2021-04-12 21:22:21','',1286,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1286-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1288,1,'2021-04-12 21:30:11','2021-04-12 21:30:11','<!-- wp:divi/placeholder /-->','A Performance Expert\'s 5 Nonnegotiables For Productivity That Lasts','','inherit','closed','closed','','1286-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 21:30:11','2021-04-12 21:30:11','',1286,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1286-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1290,1,'2021-04-12 21:34:06','2021-04-12 21:34:06','','Productivity','','inherit','open','closed','','productivity','','','2021-04-12 21:34:06','2021-04-12 21:34:06','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Productivity.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1382,1,'2021-04-13 17:04:21','2021-04-13 17:04:21','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"0px||0px|||\"]<h1 class=\"post-title entry-title\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>A Performance Expert\'s 5 Nonnegotiables For Productivity That Lasts</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"17px|||||\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Productivity.jpg\" width=\"411\" height=\"240\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1290 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you\'re in a slump of some sort (be it work-related, academic, or a mere dip in creativity), you\'re certainly not alone. Everyone can feel unmotivated at times, and while it does take some work to get back on track, the venture isn\'t impossible. In fact, you can actually biohack your way to peak productivity with a few lifestyle shifts.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Take it from Steven Kotler: According to this performance expert, <em>New York Times </em>bestselling author of <em>The Art of Impossible</em><em>,</em> and founder and executive director of the Flow Research Collective, enhancing productivity requires both a physical and cognitive approach. \"If you\'re interested in peak performance, you have to be doing these things. Otherwise, you can\'t even get into the game,\" he says on this episode of the mindbodygreen podcast. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Below, the five tips Kotler considers nonnegotiable: </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-fqDyKHlhC\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">1.</span> Focus on sleep. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We\'ll start with the most physical: According to Kotler, sleep is paramount for productivity (and other experts would agree). In fact, lack of sleep has even been associated with cognitive decline.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"You need seven to eight hours of sleep a night. It\'s just what you need,\" he says. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-9IxrTM5qnJ\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">2.</span> Find social support. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"You actually need social support,\" Kotler adds. Studies have shown loneliness is associated with more than double the risk of cognitive decline. In terms of everyday performance, this makes sense: \"Think about getting in a fight with your boyfriend, girlfriend, wife, brother, or boss,\" says Kotler. \"Think about your energy levels the next day—you\'re tapped. It\'s a big break on peak performance.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">But just as those negative social experiences can inhibit your productivity, high-quality connections can lift your spirits (and performance) right back up. Do what you can to foster the relationships in your life, even on a virtual plane, and your productivity may thrive. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-xN_LsiGEoc\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">3.</span> Manage your anxiety levels. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"Anxiety is a huge break on people,\" he says. That\'s why Kotler says you need tools to manage your anxiety. He cites three specific ways to approach those feelings: mindfulness, gratitude, and exercise. \"The research shows you need one of these a day.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Whether it\'s a five-minute gratitude practice, breathwork session, or round of HIIT, approaching one of these a day can help enhance your performance levels. During times of crisis (like, say, during a pandemic), you might even need two out of the three each day to dial down anxiety and kick-start productivity, says Kotler. The specifics may differ for everyone, but any way you can help manage anxiety is key. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-Sgb_fZWoP0\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">4.</span> Set process-oriented goals. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The next step, says Kotler, is to set manageable goals. Now, you do need high-level aspirations, but the key to productivity is to set process-oriented goals. Those long-term desires have their time and place, sure, but everyday performance relies on those mission-level, tangible goals. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Take this long-term goal, for instance: <em>I want to be the greatest author in history.</em> \"That\'s a moving target. It\'s an aim,\" says Kotler. \"You want to chunk those down into hard, one- to five-year goals.\" Try something like: <em>I\'d like to write a </em>New York Times<em> bestseller. </em>Tangible, specific, and process-oriented. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">With that goal, though, it\'s even more helpful to dissect it into clear, daily goal lists. It\'s like a web of goal-setting: \"Everything has to point in the same direction,\" says Kotler. \"Your high goals have to flow into your mission-level goals and your clear, daily goals.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-7a5DVqM4jR\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">5.</span> Discover your intrinsic motivations. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"There are five major intrinsic motivators that matter,\" says Kotler. Curiosity, purpose, autonomy, purpose, and mastery: \"Curiosity is our basic fuel that builds into passion. [Then] passion is attached to a cause greater than ourselves, which becomes purpose. Once you have purpose, your body literally wants the autonomy and freedom to pursue that purpose. And once you\'re pursuing that purpose, you want to master the skills to really pursue that purpose.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">They\'re all aligned, and one cannot continue on without the other. That said, if you are lacking in any of these intrinsic motivators, your productivity might suffer down the line. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-VdbLl014c8\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The takeaway. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We admit, it can be difficult to focus on all five of these factors each and every day. But if you\'re hoping to strengthen your performance, perhaps take the time to enhance them one by one. According to Kotler, you\'re essentially biohacking your productivity. Says the expert: \"When we screw up peak performance, it\'s nothing more than getting our biology to work for us rather than against us.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/performance-experts-nonnegotiables-for-productivity\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','A Performance Expert\'s 5 Nonnegotiables For Productivity That Lasts','','inherit','closed','closed','','1286-revision-v1','','','2021-04-13 17:04:21','2021-04-13 17:04:21','',1286,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1286-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1291,1,'2021-04-12 21:35:56','2021-04-12 21:35:56','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"0px||0px|||\"]<h1 class=\"post-title entry-title\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>A Performance Expert\'s 5 Nonnegotiables For Productivity That Lasts</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"17px|||||\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Productivity.jpg\" width=\"411\" height=\"240\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1290 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you\'re in a slump of some sort (be it work-related, academic, or a mere dip in creativity), you\'re certainly not alone. Everyone can feel unmotivated at times, and while it does take some work to get back on track, the venture isn\'t impossible. In fact, you can actually biohack your way to peak productivity with a few lifestyle shifts.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Take it from <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https://www.stevenkotler.com/\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Steven Kotler</a>: According to this performance expert, <em>New York Times </em>bestselling author of <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https://www.amazon.com/Art-Impossible-Peak-Performance-Primer/dp/0062977539\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><em>The Art of Impossible</em></a><em>,</em> and founder and executive director of the <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https://www.flowresearchcollective.com/\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Flow Research Collective</a>, enhancing productivity requires both a physical and cognitive approach. \"If you\'re interested in peak performance, you have to be doing these things. Otherwise, you can\'t even get into the game,\" he says on this episode of the mindbodygreen podcast. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Below, the five tips Kotler considers nonnegotiable: </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-fqDyKHlhC\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">1.</span> Focus on sleep. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We\'ll start with the most physical: According to Kotler, sleep is paramount for productivity (and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-29363/is-sleep-more-important-than-nutrition-exercise-mindfulness.html\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">other experts would agree</a>). In fact, lack of sleep has even been <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/sleep-deprivation-increases-alzheimers-protein\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">associated with cognitive decline</a>.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"You need <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/how-much-sleep-do-you-need-and-what-happens-when-you-dont-get-enough\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">seven to eight hours of sleep a night</a>. It\'s just what you need,\" he says. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-9IxrTM5qnJ\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">2.</span> Find social support. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"You actually need social support,\" Kotler adds. Studies have shown loneliness is associated with <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17283291\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">more than double the risk</a> of cognitive decline. In terms of everyday performance, this makes sense: \"Think about getting in a fight with your boyfriend, girlfriend, wife, brother, or boss,\" says Kotler. \"Think about your energy levels the next day—you\'re tapped. It\'s a big break on peak performance.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">But just as those negative social experiences can inhibit your productivity, high-quality connections can lift your spirits (and performance) right back up. Do what you can to foster the relationships in your life, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/why-you-should-make-virtual-eye-contact\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">even on a virtual plane</a>, and your productivity may thrive. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-xN_LsiGEoc\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">3.</span> Manage your anxiety levels. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"Anxiety is a huge break on people,\" he says. That\'s why Kotler says you need tools to manage your anxiety. He cites three specific ways to approach those feelings: mindfulness, gratitude, and exercise. \"The research shows you need one of these a day.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Whether it\'s a five-minute gratitude practice, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/what-breathwork-is\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">breathwork session</a>, or round of HIIT, approaching one of these a day can help enhance your performance levels. During times of crisis (like, say, during a pandemic), you might even need two out of the three each day to dial down anxiety and kick-start productivity, says Kotler. The specifics may differ for everyone, but any way you can help <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/practical-tips-to-manage-worry\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">manage anxiety</a> is key. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-Sgb_fZWoP0\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">4.</span> Set process-oriented goals. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The next step, says Kotler, is to set manageable goals. Now, you do need high-level aspirations, but the key to productivity is to set process-oriented goals. Those long-term desires have their time and place, sure, but everyday performance relies on those mission-level, tangible goals. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Take this long-term goal, for instance: <em>I want to be the greatest author in history.</em> \"That\'s a moving target. It\'s an aim,\" says Kotler. \"You want to chunk those down into hard, one- to five-year goals.\" Try something like: <em>I\'d like to write a </em>New York Times<em> bestseller. </em>Tangible, specific, and process-oriented. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">With that goal, though, it\'s even more helpful to dissect it into clear, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/how-matthew-mcconaughey-practices-self-awareness\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">daily goal lists</a>. It\'s like a web of goal-setting: \"Everything has to point in the same direction,\" says Kotler. \"Your high goals have to flow into your mission-level goals and your clear, daily goals.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-7a5DVqM4jR\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"article-heading__number c-mauve\">5.</span> Discover your intrinsic motivations. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">\"There are five major intrinsic motivators that matter,\" says Kotler. Curiosity, purpose, autonomy, purpose, and mastery: \"Curiosity is our basic fuel that builds into passion. [Then] passion is attached to a cause greater than ourselves, which becomes purpose. Once you have purpose, your body literally wants the autonomy and freedom to pursue that purpose. And once you\'re pursuing that purpose, you want to master the skills to really pursue that purpose.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">They\'re all aligned, and one cannot continue on without the other. That said, if you are lacking in any of these intrinsic motivators, your productivity might suffer down the line. </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-heading article-heading--p1 article-heading--l2\" id=\"mbg-VdbLl014c8\">\n<div class=\"article-heading__inner\">\n<h2 class=\"article-heading__text article-heading__text--l2 article-heading--standard\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The takeaway. </span></h2>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-text article-text--p2 article-text--c-mauve  article-text--standard\">\n<div class=\"article-text__inner\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We admit, it can be difficult to focus on all five of these factors each and every day. But if you\'re hoping to strengthen your performance, perhaps take the time to enhance them one by one. According to Kotler, you\'re essentially biohacking your productivity. Says the expert: \"When we screw up peak performance, it\'s nothing more than getting our biology to work for us rather than against us.\" </span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/performance-experts-nonnegotiables-for-productivity\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','A Performance Expert\'s 5 Nonnegotiables For Productivity That Lasts','','inherit','closed','closed','','1286-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 21:35:56','2021-04-12 21:35:56','',1286,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1286-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1293,1,'2021-04-12 21:37:35','2021-04-12 21:37:35','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<h1 class=\"single__title h1\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Managing Your Money During Coronavirus</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<div align=\"center\"></div>\n<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Manage-money.jpg\" width=\"652\" height=\"433\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1296 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"> </span></p>\n<div class=\"single__body p\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">With coronavirus disrupting our daily lives, many people are worried about the effects on their budgets. Being told to sit on your hands and wait while uncertainty swirls around you can just add to your stress levels. Taking some practical steps to manage your money can give you a better handle on your finances right now.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Our mission at Simple is to help people feel more confident with their money, and that seems more important now than ever. We hope that the budgeting tools built in to your Simple Account—like Expenses and Safe-to Spend®—along with these tips can help you feel more in control while so many things in the world seem uncertain.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"the-big-economic-picture\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The big economic picture</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Uncertainty drives anxiety—and that shows up in the economy. With reports of the stock market dropping and businesses scrambling, it’s easy to get caught up in that anxiety. But take a step back—and a deep breath—and look at the big picture.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Your Simple account is FDIC-insured (up to the legal limits) via our partner bank, BBVA USA. While interest rates may fluctuate, the balance in your checking account is unaffected by the market ups and downs</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Markets tend to return to health over the long term. Financial experts are giving a variety of advice, with some saying that, just like your face, your 401k or retirement accounts may be good things not to touch right now. But it all depends on your individual circumstances and how close you are to retirement, so consider talking to a financial advisor (or your HR rep, if you have a 401k at your job) about the smartest move for you right now</span></li>\n</ul>\n<h3></h3>\n<h3>Managing your savings<span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you have savings tucked away, like in a Protected Goals Account, you might be wondering how interest rate changes will affect you. It’s true that most interest rates will probably go down (meaning you earn less interest on your money), but your principal balance (the amount of actual money you have in the bank) won’t. So you might want to just sit tight and keep any savings you have available in case you encounter unexpected changes to your financial situation—and consider continuing whatever saving-up you’re already doing, if you can, to support your longer-term needs.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">That said, if you’re saving for something longer-term and are concerned about falling interest rates, now could be a good time to think about whether a fixed-rate savings option, like a No-Penalty CD, would be useful. The main benefit to a CD is that the interest rate stays the same for the CD’s entire term, so you can count on a reliable return even if interest rates are falling elsewhere. And a No-Penalty CD allows you to withdraw your money early with no fees in case you do need to tap into your savings a few months down the line.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"managing-your-debt\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Managing your debt</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">With rates going down, now might be a good time to get a better handle on your debt.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Corral credit cards.</strong> If you have credit-card balances, see if you qualify for a card with lower interest (or a no-interest introductory rate) and transfer your balances from higher-interest cards (though be aware there’s usually a fee for transfers)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Manage your mortgage.</strong> Have a mortgage? Refinancing at a lower rate can not only reduce your payments now, but help you spend less on interest in the long term. (There are some costs to refinancing, so do your research)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Ease student loan stress.</strong> If student loan payments are straining your budget right now (especially if your income is taking a hit at the moment), you could look into refinancing or deferring your payments for a time. The recent announcement of a possible student loan interest waiver may have an impact on how these options affect you, so call your loan servicing company to get details</span></li>\n</ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"stock-up-smarter\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Managing your budget</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Whenever there’s a big upheaval in the world, the ripple effects can show up in your day-to-day budget. Taking control of your spending can help you weather both the concrete challenges and the stress of the unknown.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 id=\"stock-up-smarter\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Stock up smarter</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Lots of folks feel the need to stock up on supplies right now. Yet few of us have money in the budget to clear out Costco. Here are some small, reasonable ways to get what you need and stay on budget.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Groceries</strong>: To reduce waste and grocery bills, center your shopping list on affordable, shelf-stable foods that won’t spoil in case you’re stuck at home for a bit—like rice, pasta, and beans. Look for fresh foods that freeze well (like bread and shredded cheese) and long-lasting produce (like onions and carrots)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Medications</strong>: Consider picking up just the few things you’d need if you had a winter bug, like cold medicine and cough drops. If you take a prescription medication regularly, give your doctor a ring to ask if you need an extra supply—and be sure to call your insurance to make sure they’ll cover it</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Shop your own home</strong>: You might be surprised at how much you already have in your house to keep you comfortable while saying in. That lonely can of pumpkin in the back of the cabinet? Make curried pumpkin soup! The stack of half-finished crafts or unread books in the corner? Cheaper fun than renting movies online! Do an inventory of what’s right under your nose before you run out to buy more</span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></li>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"trim-spending-stay-on-top-of-expenses\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Trim spending, stay on top of expenses</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">With the economy changing rapidly, keeping a budget and tracking expenses can help you maintain better control and give you peace of mind. If you haven’t examined your budget closely in a while, now’s a good time to look for any waste and opportunities to save money.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you’re not already budgeting, set up Expenses to get started—here’s how</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Holed up at home? See if you can streamline your streaming services so you have plenty of entertainment options without straining your budget</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Look for monthly bills you could reduce—like a better internet package or cell phone plan</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Unsubscribe from those oh-so-tempting sales emails (Unroll.me makes it super easy)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Ordering food delivery can be a convenience and a comfort—and it can also eat into your budget quick. Look for mouth-watering recipe blogs that help you commit to cooking at home more often; Budget Bytes is a great resource for budget-friendly ideas. (And if you do order in, consider getting food from a local restaurant that needs the support)</span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></li>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"shift-money-as-needed\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Shift money as needed</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Depending on your situation, you might find yourself with some unexpected expenses—like a babysitter if schools are closed. In addition to tightening up optional spending (like entertainment), remember that this is exactly what emergency funds are for—so if you have one, don’t hesitate to use it.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">On the flip side, if you have a reprieve on certain expenses (like spending less on gas because you’re working from home), tuck that money into your emergency fund (or start one now!) so you’ve got a sense of security.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Going into debt should always be a last resort, so use your credit card wisely. If you absolutely need to charge a few things in a pinch, consider making a plan for paying off that debt when your finances allow.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"save-on-entertainment-and-stay-connected-to-friends\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Save on entertainment (and stay connected to friends)</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Find creative ways to have fun when your plans have to change. The money you save on going out can bolster your budget or emergency savings—and keeping in touch with the people you love makes weathering any storm less stressful.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Concert canceled? Create a virtual music party—ask everyone to contribute their favorite song to a shared Spotify playlist (and have a video chat dance-off if you’re anxious to bust a move)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Happy hours curtailed? FaceTime friends for a remote wine night (bonus: the drinks are cheaper!)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Curbing your travel plans? Plan a staycation full of fun activities you never have time for, like a movie marathon, a tour of your city’s parks, or a home spa day</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Movie theaters gone dark? Use the Netflix Party extension for Chrome for a virtual movie night with friends from afar</span></li>\n</ul>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 id=\"lend-a-hand-if-you-can\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Lend a hand if you can</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mr. Rogers said it best: “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ ”</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you’re lucky enough to have extra money in your budget, using it to help those who are struggling is a great way to ease suffering for others—and reduce your own sense of helplessness at the same time.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Food banks and services for the houseless are in especially dire need right now, so donating to such organizations can make a big impact. Find your local food bank here</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some organizations (like the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation, the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, and GoFundMe.org) have set up funds to help people disproportionately affected by the coronavirus, as have many cities and states. Search online for initiatives in your state if you’d like to contribute locally</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you use delivery or ride-sharing services, tip as generously as you can. Gig workers are being hit especially hard if you have a few extra bucks, share the love. (And opt for no-contact delivery when available to help both you and your delivery driver stay safer)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Spend your money with companies that have publicly committed to ethical practices that help their employees and consumers</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Buy from local small businesses whenever possible, especially those hit hardest, like restaurants, theaters, and small shops. One way to support your favorite spots when you’re not going out is to buy gift cards—they’ll benefit from the revenue now, and you’ll have some fun to look forward to in the future</span></li>\n</ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h2>\n<h2 id=\"take-control-to-cultivate-calm\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Take control to cultivate calm</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Focusing on your budget right now can help you feel more in control of your finances in the midst of uncertainty. If you’re feeling the all-too-common urge to shop online when life feels stressful, here are some ways to make curtailing extra spending easier.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Try to keep in mind that the current tumult, while distressing, is temporary; the world tends to weather disruptions and return to normal again at some point. We hope these tips will help you find your footing right now—and work toward being prepared for future ups and downs.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"single__feedback\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.simple.com/blog/crisis-money-management\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Managing Your Money During Coronavirus','','publish','closed','closed','','managing-your-money-during-coronavirus','','','2021-04-13 17:09:27','2021-04-13 17:09:27','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?page_id=1293',0,'page','',0),(1294,1,'2021-04-12 21:37:35','2021-04-12 21:37:35','<!-- wp:divi/placeholder /-->','Managing Your Money During Coronavirus','','inherit','closed','closed','','1293-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 21:37:35','2021-04-12 21:37:35','',1293,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1293-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1300,1,'2021-04-12 21:47:49','2021-04-12 21:47:49','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"14px|||||\"]<h1 class=\"post-title entry-title\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">26 Business Review Sites Where Customers Rate You</span></strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Rate.jpg\" width=\"842\" height=\"470\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1303 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Business review sites are an essential part of the customer buying journey today. Purchasers make snap decisions about a firm simply by reading business reviews — without ever calling your company, setting foot in your store or visiting your website.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What is your presence like on review sites? Have you found all the sites where customers review your business? Are the reviews mostly positive?</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Managing your presence is called online reputation management and it’s something you should be doing on business review sites. Reputation management involves identifying, monitoring, and influencing your business’s credibility and reputation online. And central to review sites are customer reviews.<span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-149\" class=\"ezoic-adpicker-ad\"></span></span></p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h2>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What is a Customer Review?</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">A customer review is when a customer gives a review of a product, service or brand online based on first hand knowledge. Customer reviews are not professional reviews and are never paid for. About 72% of U.S. consumers have written a review for a local business.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Customer reviews are a form of customer feedback. They usually include some text, as well as a star rating of 1 to 5 stars, with 1 being poor and 5 being excellent.  While there are many places you can find online business listings, the sites below go beyond listings and are popular places for customers to leave reviews.</span></p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h2>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Best Business Review Sites</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The following 26 sites include the best B2C review sites, important for businesses that sell to consumers (examples: Yelp and HomeAdvisor). We also identify the best B2B review sites, for businesses that sell to other businesses (example: G2). Focus on the sites applicable to your industry so you can reap the benefits when buyers use them to make purchase decisions.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">1. Google My Business</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Google My Business (GMB) is the single most crucial review and listing tool for local businesses. It is is one of the top review sites, replacing what was previously called Google Local. An essential tool for garnering a credible online reputation, it can also help with ranking your business in various kinds of search results. Use this Google My Business Cheat Sheet to get started.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">2. Bing Places for Business</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Bing Places for Business is the Bing search engine’s version of Google My Business. Consumers can leave ratings and reviews about a company. Local businesses, including businesses with multiple locations, can claim their listing and complete a profile to add their listings to Bing Places, all for free. Once verified, information will appear in Bing Local search and map results.<span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-151\" class=\"ezoic-adpicker-ad\"></span></span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">3. Facebook Ratings and Reviews</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Facebook is much more than a social media portal to share posts. The hugely popular social media site is also where followers can leave ratings, reviews, and recommendations on a business’s Page using its Facebook Ratings and Reviews platform. Businesses can turn off ratings and reviews in their Facebook Page settings.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">4. Better Business Bureau</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Better Business Bureau (BBB) prides itself on being an ethical marketplace that allows individuals to recommend businesses. The BBB is one of the oldest and most trusted sites, and verifies all consumer reviews. Businesses can also become a BBB accredited business, and the Better Business Bureau assigns its own ratings from A to F but these ratings are independent from reviews by the public.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">5. Amazon Customer Reviews</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Amazon has been allowing consumers to post reviews about products since 1995. Garnering a string of 4- or 5-star reviews on this leading online retailer’s site can help businesses generate many new sales and build a solid reputation. Business reviews also apply to any listing in Amazon’s Handmade section and to service providers in the Amazon HomeServices section.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">6. Yelp</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some small business owners and marketing managers have a love-hate relationship with Yelp, feeling that positive reviews at times get less visibility than negative ones at the site. However, you can’t deny Yelp’s importance. Its pages show up frequently in internet searches. It’s a consumer destination, too. The site also trains companies to respond to reviews. A Yelp listing can help businesses manage their online credibility and reputation. Yelp is one of the top review sites and an important place to encourage potential customers to do business with you.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">7. Foursquare</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Using its <i>Swarm</i> and <i>CityGuides</i> apps, Foursquare lets users check-in and rate venues they visit. Users can also leave “tips” for others visiting the establishments. Companies that sign up for Foursquare for Business can take advantage of user analytics. Businesses can also add their own tips to Foursquare and make customer reward offers. Foursquare data is often included in other sites and maps.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">8. HomeAdvisor</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you operate a home improvement business or provide services to homeowners, listing your services on local business review websites like HomeAdvisor and collecting business reviews can positively impact your business and help you get new customers. All reviews placed on HomeAdvisor go through an extensive screening process and are verified by the site’s moderators.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">9. Yellow Pages</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You can get a free business listing on Yellow Pages which enables businesses to manage the reviews placed on the site about their company. Yellow Pages has transitioned from paper to digital, and is now supporting businesses online with local marketing and reviews. While the yellow pages are no longer the heavyweight driver of new customers the way they were decades ago when print books ruled, make sure to claim your business there.<span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-146\" class=\"ezoic-adpicker-ad\"></span></span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">10. TripAdvisor</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">TripAdvisor is a review platform focused on the hotel, travel, restaurant, airline, or entertainment industries. Customers share reviews of hotels and other establishments connected to the travel industry. Given that TripAdvisor has collected more than 878 million reviews, it’s in every travel business’s interest to claim its listing and generate positive reviews on one of the largest travel sites in existence.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">11. Angie’s List</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Angie’s List is regarded as one of the most credible business review sites, being early to offer business listings. Reviews cannot be from anonymous sources on Angie s List, which again, adds to the credibility of the evaluations posted there. Companies can set up a page on Angie s List for free where customers can leave reviews.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">12. TrustRadius</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">TrustRadius is an online review source designed for software businesses. Adding to the credibility of TrustRadius is the fact that all reviewers are authenticated via LinkedIn. This enables users to view what their connections on LinkedIn say about their business and software products.<span id=\"ezoic-pub-ad-placeholder-147\" class=\"ezoic-adpicker-ad\"></span></span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">13. OpenTable</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you own or run a restaurant, registering on OpenTable will enable customers to make reservations and write reviews. Restaurants receive a star rating on OpenTable based on the number of reviews and the percentage of people who recommend the restaurant. Naturally, the higher the review rating, the better a restaurant’s credibility and online reputation.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">14. PlanetRate</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PlanetRate enables customers to write reviews on businesses of all industries. Companies can register on PlanetRate and actively collect reviews. Users can write in-depth analyses of companies on PlanetRate. Any positive feedback on this review site can influence how consumers perceive your business.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">15. Salesforce AppExchange</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Salesforce AppExchange is an enterprise cloud marketplace designed to extend the Salesforce platform. It lets users rate businesses through a five-star rating system. Businesses with a Salesforce AppExchange app can keep track of their app’s rating and monitor their online business reviews.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">16. Trustpilot</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Trustpilot allows businesses to generate a profile page and encourage customers to provide reviews. Companies can send customizable review invitations for a higher-level paid membership fee and share their reviews and social ratings on social media.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">17. Glassdoor</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Glassdoor users can search reviews and ratings of more than 700,000 businesses around the world. Employees can also share what it is like to work for a company on Glassdoor. With candid and honest reviews about a business’s services, products, and what it is like to work for, Glassdoor can be an invaluable source for enhancing a company’s reputation with prospective employees.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">18. G2</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">G2 (formerly known as G2 Crowd) is a business review site for companies that sell software. Business software apps are ranked on a five-star scale. With more than five million business users heading to G2 each month to read reviews and buy software, having quality ratings on G2 can directly influence business buying decisions.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">19. VendOp</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Customers can search for vendors of a particular industry and specification on VendOp. The site provides a portal for purchasers to share their experiences with other customers. Users can search reviews by ratings, service, and location on VendOp.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">20. Manta</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Manta is mainly a business review site, one dedicated to small business. Business owners can claim and customize their page to improve online visibility and marketability. Consumers can search from millions of businesses, and registered users can leave star ratings and write reviews.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">21. Avvo</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Avvo is a business review site for attorneys. Consumers can review their lawyer for the benefit of other consumers and assign up to 5 stars. Avvo claims to include 97% of all lawyers in the United States in its database, and also lists them by practice specialty. All reviews are subject to approval by Avvo, which separately provides its own rating of 1 to 10, based on specified criteria.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">22. WebMD</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">WebMD is a vast site getting over 100 million visitors a month, containing medical information for consumers. It also has listings of doctors and dentists, and allows consumers to leave business reviews of them.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">23. FinancesOnline</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">FinancesOnline is an independent review platform that addresses B2B, SaaS, and financial companies. It helps users find and compare software products and services best suited to their needs. They can also read customer product reviews and reports from experts. Currently, the site has more than 50,000 online reviews from users of software products.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">24. Merchant Circle</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Opening its virtual doors in 2005, Merchant Circle has more than 15 million local business listings across the U.S. in its database. Consumers refer to Merchant Circle to find businesses, read reviews by consumers, and get competitive quotes from companies they seek out. Make sure you claim your business listing. It can be a source for acquiring new customers.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">25. Sitejabber</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Sitejabber is a site with online reviews of businesses which also lets customers get answers to questions from other customers and the business itself. After making a purchase, customers can leave their own feedback and get help resolving any issues that may arise.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">26. Which?</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Which? is an independent not-for-profit UK-based consumer review site that reviews services and products and then writes and shares the reviews. Managing to have commendable reviews written about your products or services on Which? can go a long way in generating a sound and credible online reputation.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Other Review Sites</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">There are over 100 larger sites that allow user-generated reviews, and many smaller ones. Most are niche specific. CitiSearch, Local.com, Viewpoints, ConsumerAffairs, Etsy, Goodreads, Cars.com, Edmunds, CarGuru, Care.com, Thumbtack, Fiverr, Zomato, VRBO, Airbnb, Zillow, Houzz, Apartments.com, Bankrate, and the Apple Apps Store and Google Play for apps — these are just a few that feature reviews today. Find the business review sites relevant to your industry and your business. Then start listening to what the public is saying about your company, and engage.</span></p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h2>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">5 Tips for Leveraging Business Review Sites</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The following best practice tips will help you use online review sites to get highly sought-after, positive reviews.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><b>Claim Your Business Profile</b></span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You can claim a listing on many review sites such as Yelp and Google My Business — and you should. Doing so enables you to verify or add your business information such as your phone number, hours of operation and email address. You can respond to user reviews, add photos and sometimes add links to a blog post or articles. Your profile becomes an extension of your business website, and a great way to draw in new customers. Google My Business is especially crucial because Google is the world’s largest search engine.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><b>Encourage Business Reviews </b></span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Make it a habit to encourage customers to share a review or give feedback on your Facebook page, Yelp, the BBB, or other review sites. Reviews essentially are word of mouth. Instead of speaking one-on-one with a neighbor or friend, consumers take to review websites.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some business owners dread looking at customer reviews because they expect them to be negative. Have confidence. Embrace each review as the equivalent of free advertising and an integral part of your digital marketing through happy customers.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><b>Don’t Incentivize Reviews</b></span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">While you can encourage reviews, do not incentivize users to give them. Also, it’s important to understand the rules for each review site. Some, like Yelp, have strict guidelines about asking for reviews.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><b>Don’t Write Fake Reviews </b></span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Writing fake business reviews could get your business banned from the review site. Review sites work hard to preserve consumer trust and have algorithms to detect and remove fake reviews. No matter how tempting, it is not worth the risk and could damage your company’s reputation should you be discovered.</span></p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><b></b></span></h4>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><b>Respond to Negative Reviews</b></span></h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Never let negative reviews go unanswered. Keep an open mind, remain unemotional and apologize if necessary. Take negative comments back to your team and use them to improve. If you did nothing wrong, acknowledge the situation and empathize. Avoid arguing with a customer or flaming the reviewer.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">It turns out that 30% of consumers reverse negative reviews on online review sites when the company responds, according to a survey by ZenBusiness. Yet, only 12% of consumers say their reviews are often or always responded to. Therefore, by responding, you gain a real advantage over all the other small businesses that never respond.</span></p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h2>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Do I Still Need My Own Website if I Have Review Site Listings?</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You should always have your own company website. Some businesses use their Google My Business profile, Facebook page or other business review sites as a replacement for a website of their own. But this is not wise, for one simple reason: third-party sites are outside of your control.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If Facebook decides — however unjustly — to delete your Page, it could take weeks or months to appeal and get it back, if ever. An effective digital marketing strategy should include both your own website as well as business review sites.</span></p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h2>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Should I Display Reviews on My Website?</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Yes. A number of software apps are available to help with aggregating reviews and displaying them on your site. The software reminds customers to review your business post-sale. The apps also automate collecting reviews that have already been published on third-party sites, and provide widgets so you can embed and display reviews on your own website. Examples: GatherUp, Reviews.io and BirdEye.</span></p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h2>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Do Customer Review Sites Help with Search Engine Rankings?</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Information from business listing sites, including user reviews, can show up high in search results in numerous ways. In particular, GMB and Bing Places information is often displayed prominently in the respective Google search engine and Bing search engine pages and maps. A search engine optimization (SEO) professional who specializes in local SEO can help you with a local SEO strategy and explain more.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Rather than focusing just on rankings, however, think broadly about “visibility”. Review sites give you more places to be found online. Too many small businesses are effectively invisible online. The more review websites your company appears in, with positive ratings, the better</span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a; font-size: 14px;\">.</span></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://smallbiztrends.com/2020/12/business-review-sites.html\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','26 Business Review Sites Where Customers Rate You','','publish','closed','closed','','26-business-review-sites-where-customers-rate-you','','','2021-04-13 17:14:05','2021-04-13 17:14:05','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/?page_id=1300',0,'page','',0),(1301,1,'2021-04-12 21:47:49','2021-04-12 21:47:49','<!-- wp:divi/placeholder /-->','26 Business Review Sites Where Customers Rate You','','inherit','closed','closed','','1300-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 21:47:49','2021-04-12 21:47:49','',1300,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1300-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1296,1,'2021-04-12 21:39:44','2021-04-12 21:39:44','','Manage money','','inherit','open','closed','','manage-money','','','2021-04-12 21:39:44','2021-04-12 21:39:44','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Manage-money.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1303,1,'2021-04-12 21:50:28','2021-04-12 21:50:28','','Rate','','inherit','open','closed','','rate','','','2021-04-12 21:50:28','2021-04-12 21:50:28','',0,'http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Rate.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),(1311,1,'2021-04-12 22:08:08','2021-04-12 22:08:08','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<h1 class=\"headline\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Home insurance companies will reduce premiums if you have these smart devices</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Reduce-premiums.jpg\" width=\"894\" height=\"489\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1309 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">These days, <a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/first-time-homebuyers-common-mistakes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">many homeowners</a> are using smart home devices to help keep their largest asset safe. As a result, many home insurance companies are offering discounts on their premiums for customers who use these items. However, since this technology is still fairly new, not all companies currently offer this perk.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To that end, it\'s important to shop around for the right <a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/homeowners-insurance-what-is-covered-how-it-works\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">home insurance</a> company. If you\'ve invested in smart home technology, it’s likely worth going with a company that offers one of these discounts. After all, even a small percentage discount will mean money back in your pocket at the end of each month. Luckily, you can explore pricing and <a href=\"https://www.credible.com/blog/insurance/homeowners-insurance/?utm_source=fox&amp;utm_medium=partner_link&amp;utm_campaign=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.foxbusiness.com%2Fmoney%2Fhome-insurance-reduce-premiums-smart-devices\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">find the right home insurance plan to fit your needs using Credible</a>.</span></p>\n<div data-unit-credible=\"simple-cta,home-insurance,get-home-insurance-quotes\" class=\"credible\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Still, before you get too far into specifics, it\'s important to understand a little bit more about how these discounts work. We\'ve listed four smart home technologies that can get you a discounted rate below.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Wireless security systems</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To start, wireless security systems, including those with video doorbells, can help lower the cost of your property insurance or dwelling coverage. Put simply, these security systems protect your home against the threat of home invasion by offering the ability to remotely lock and unlock your home, sending instant safety alerts, and continuously monitoring all home activity.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In particular, insurance companies really like to see these systems combined with monitoring services, which will call the police or fire company in the event of a problem. That said, just know that these services often come at a cost, which can cancel out any discount that you\'ve received on your premium.</span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong></strong></span></h2>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Thermostats</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">While it may seem strange for a thermostat to be able to lower your insurance premiums, in this case, it\'s all about fire safety. The right thermostat may be able to sound an alarm if it feels the temperature getting too hot or it may be able to shut off your heating system\'s fans in order to stop the temperature from increasing any further.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">As an added bonus, a smart thermostat can help you save on your energy costs. Often, you\'ll have the ability to remotely turn your heating or air conditioning system on and off, which means that you can reduce the chances of it running when you\'re not home.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Smart smoke detectors</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Meanwhile. smart smoke detectors are obviously meant to lower the risk of fire. While every smoke detector is different, most smart models will send you automated alerts for maintenance, remotely shut off in the case of a false alarm, and notify your local fire company if there is a problem.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">However, it\'s important to note that there are other things you can do to lower your premiums. For example, just keeping fire extinguishers around lowers the risk of sustaining significant property damage in the event of a fire so they are often linked with a discount on many insurance policies.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<div data-unit-credible=\"simple-cta,home-insurance,learn-about-home-insurance\" class=\"credible\"></div>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Water and gas shutoff sensors</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Lastly, water and gas shut off sensors lower the risk of leaks and flooding. Tools like gas leak detectors learn your behavior patterns in order to better detect leaks. They will also automatically shut off your system in the event of a leak, and send you notifications about the shut-off in case you aren\'t home.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Similar to the fire extinguishers, there\'s a good chance that the company that offers your <a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/do-you-need-homeowners-insurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">home coverage</a> may offer you a discount if you have the proper carbon monoxide detectors installed. These detectors can work hand-in-hand with water and gas shut off sensors to better keep you and your family safe.</span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong></strong></span></h2>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>The bottom line</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you\'re ready to start shopping around for the right insurance agency, the first step is to get a sense of your coverage options. Just like when you got <a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/do-you-need-mortgage-insurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">your mortgage</a>, you\'ll likely want to get at least three home insurance quotes from different insurers. When you\'re ready, <a href=\"https://www.credible.com/blog/insurance/homeowners-insurance/?utm_source=fox&amp;utm_medium=partner_link&amp;utm_campaign=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.foxbusiness.com%2Fmoney%2Fhome-insurance-reduce-premiums-smart-devices\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Credible can help you compare home insurance companies</a> and get a quote online in a matter of minutes.</span></p>\n<div data-unit-credible=\"simple-cta,home-insurance,compare-quotes\" class=\"credible\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">As for what to compare when you get your quotes, you\'re going to want to look at the insurance deductibles. The deductibles signify the amount that you\'ll be responsible for covering in the event of an emergency. You’ll also want to see if you can save money by bundling your home insurance coverage. Some insurance companies will offer a discount for adding additional policies like earthquake or flood insurance.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/home-insurance-reduce-premiums-smart-devices\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Home insurance companies will reduce premiums if you have these smart devices','','inherit','closed','closed','','1306-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 22:08:08','2021-04-12 22:08:08','',1306,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1306-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1310,1,'2021-04-12 22:07:45','2021-04-12 22:07:45','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<h1 class=\"headline\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Home insurance companies will reduce premiums if you have these smart devices</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Reduce-premiums.jpg\" width=\"894\" height=\"489\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1309 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">These days, <a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/first-time-homebuyers-common-mistakes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">many homeowners</a> are using smart home devices to help keep their largest asset safe. As a result, many home insurance companies are offering discounts on their premiums for customers who use these items. However, since this technology is still fairly new, not all companies currently offer this perk.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To that end, it\'s important to shop around for the right <a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/homeowners-insurance-what-is-covered-how-it-works\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">home insurance</a> company. If you\'ve invested in smart home technology, it’s likely worth going with a company that offers one of these discounts. After all, even a small percentage discount will mean money back in your pocket at the end of each month. Luckily, you can explore pricing and <a href=\"https://www.credible.com/blog/insurance/homeowners-insurance/?utm_source=fox&amp;utm_medium=partner_link&amp;utm_campaign=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.foxbusiness.com%2Fmoney%2Fhome-insurance-reduce-premiums-smart-devices\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">find the right home insurance plan to fit your needs using Credible</a>.</span></p>\n<div data-unit-credible=\"simple-cta,home-insurance,get-home-insurance-quotes\" class=\"credible\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Still, before you get too far into specifics, it\'s important to understand a little bit more about how these discounts work. We\'ve listed four smart home technologies that can get you a discounted rate below.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Wireless security systems</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To start, wireless security systems, including those with video doorbells, can help lower the cost of your property insurance or dwelling coverage. Put simply, these security systems protect your home against the threat of home invasion by offering the ability to remotely lock and unlock your home, sending instant safety alerts, and continuously monitoring all home activity.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In particular, insurance companies really like to see these systems combined with monitoring services, which will call the police or fire company in the event of a problem. That said, just know that these services often come at a cost, which can cancel out any discount that you\'ve received on your premium.</span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong></strong></span></h2>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Thermostats</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">While it may seem strange for a thermostat to be able to lower your insurance premiums, in this case, it\'s all about fire safety. The right thermostat may be able to sound an alarm if it feels the temperature getting too hot or it may be able to shut off your heating system\'s fans in order to stop the temperature from increasing any further.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">As an added bonus, a smart thermostat can help you save on your energy costs. Often, you\'ll have the ability to remotely turn your heating or air conditioning system on and off, which means that you can reduce the chances of it running when you\'re not home.</span></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Smart smoke detectors</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Meanwhile. smart smoke detectors are obviously meant to lower the risk of fire. While every smoke detector is different, most smart models will send you automated alerts for maintenance, remotely shut off in the case of a false alarm, and notify your local fire company if there is a problem.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">However, it\'s important to note that there are other things you can do to lower your premiums. For example, just keeping fire extinguishers around lowers the risk of sustaining significant property damage in the event of a fire so they are often linked with a discount on many insurance policies.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<div data-unit-credible=\"simple-cta,home-insurance,learn-about-home-insurance\" class=\"credible\"></div>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Water and gas shutoff sensors</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Lastly, water and gas shut off sensors lower the risk of leaks and flooding. Tools like gas leak detectors learn your behavior patterns in order to better detect leaks. They will also automatically shut off your system in the event of a leak, and send you notifications about the shut-off in case you aren\'t home.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Similar to the fire extinguishers, there\'s a good chance that the company that offers your <a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/do-you-need-homeowners-insurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">home coverage</a> may offer you a discount if you have the proper carbon monoxide detectors installed. These detectors can work hand-in-hand with water and gas shut off sensors to better keep you and your family safe.</span></p>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong></strong></span></h2>\n<h2><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>The bottom line</strong></span></h2>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you\'re ready to start shopping around for the right insurance agency, the first step is to get a sense of your coverage options. Just like when you got <a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/do-you-need-mortgage-insurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">your mortgage</a>, you\'ll likely want to get at least three home insurance quotes from different insurers. When you\'re ready, <a href=\"https://www.credible.com/blog/insurance/homeowners-insurance/?utm_source=fox&amp;utm_medium=partner_link&amp;utm_campaign=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.foxbusiness.com%2Fmoney%2Fhome-insurance-reduce-premiums-smart-devices\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Credible can help you compare home insurance companies</a> and get a quote online in a matter of minutes.</span></p>\n<div data-unit-credible=\"simple-cta,home-insurance,compare-quotes\" class=\"credible\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">As for what to compare when you get your quotes, you\'re going to want to look at the insurance deductibles. The deductibles signify the amount that you\'ll be responsible for covering in the event of an emergency. You’ll also want to see if you can save money by bundling your home insurance coverage. Some insurance companies will offer a discount for adding additional policies like earthquake or flood insurance.</span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/home-insurance-reduce-premiums-smart-devices\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Home insurance companies will reduce premiums if you have these smart devices','','inherit','closed','closed','','1306-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 22:07:45','2021-04-12 22:07:45','',1306,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1306-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1483,1,'2021-04-14 00:58:52','2021-04-14 00:58:52','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"0px|||||\"]<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Best Budgeting Apps</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"||0px|||\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<p><span><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Budget-apps-1024x683.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1279 aligncenter size-large\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Manage your money with these budgeting apps</strong></span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most people would prefer to spend less and save more, but the day-to-day reality of work, family life, and other commitments makes it impractical, if not seemingly impossible. Let’s face it, it’s tough to find the time or motivation for budgeting, and some folks skip it altogether.</span></p>\n<div class=\"loc article-intro article-content__description article-container expert-content \">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">For these and many other reasons, budgeting apps have become increasingly popular over the past decade. This software makes it easier to monitor your spending and saving habits by linking accounts to an application and tracking your cash flow. These apps, free or paid, offer a range of features to improve your finances.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We reviewed 15 of the best budgeting apps on the market to find the best options for new or experienced budgeters. We compared cost, functionality, features, security, reviews, and more. These are the best options to improve your budget.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n<div id=\"product-roundup-content__summary-list_1-0\" class=\"comp js-toc-appear product-roundup-content__summary-list summary-list--roundup summary-list\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 class=\"summary-list__title\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The 6 Best Budgeting Apps of 2021</span></h2>\n<ul class=\"summary-list__content\">\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Overall:</strong> You Need a Budget (YNAB)</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Free Budgeting App:</strong> Mint</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Cash Flow:</strong> Simplifi by Quicken</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Overspenders:</strong> PocketGuard</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Building Wealth:</strong> Personal Capital</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Couples:</strong> Zeta</span></li>\n</ul>\n<p><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: x-large; color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>BEST OVERALL</strong></span><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-body\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<h3 class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">You Need a Budget (YNAB)</span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/PqHgTIY395mHf1x4m1YweQ58QN0=/1292x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/MrvDttJe1b-DFuDYHwOn4Xv1n7E=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/KZEpDwjtLbaGsu4P-QByHyIyW1g=/548x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 548w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/n0s9d_Ym0LKW3WYngdKFykUrpSY=/796x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 796w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/bjhJaHqJA7IBXwXAoqx3oiZ5fGo=/1292x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 1292w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-link-closest-header=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".mntl-sc-commerce-btn-list__btn\"></div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You Need a Budget, or YNAB, earns the top spot because of the company’s renowned budgeting philosophy and reputation. YNAB says new budgeters typically save $600 in their first two months and more than $6,000 in their first year. Although YNAB is the most costly option on our list, the company offers a 34-day free trial and a 100% no-risk, money-back guarantee.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Complete budget makeover</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 34-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">100% money-back guarantee</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong customer service and comprehensive education</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$84 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">More time-intensive to learn</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Recent sync issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB rises to the top of our list because of its budgeting philosophy and money-back guarantee. The company offers a free trial for 34 days (no credit card required) and after that, the cost is $84 per year. If you prefer to pay less upfront, the cost is $11.99 per month.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB offers the ability to sync your bank accounts, import your data from a file, or manually enter each transaction. To begin, the company suggests learning the basics about the app through video courses, a live workshop, or reading a guide. YNAB offers a proactive budgeting approach, rather than tracking what you have already spent, like some competitors.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-6\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">After signing up, you create your first budget and assign every dollar a purpose, like your rent or car payment, for example. The goal is to eventually get at least one month ahead, so you’re spending money you earned from 30 days ago. The company offers extensive educational resources and customer support to keep you on track.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB says privacy and security are its top priority. The company protects your information by using bank-level encryption for all data, best practices for password security, third-party audits, and more.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FREE BUDGETING APP</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Mint</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-1\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/kynqNmNVT3Lhi0x3NZMGVV3GFUE=/994x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-1\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/y9IXs9i9-z1S1ZD0fa84xcpM6Qg=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/P_VB8LUd6EebQxo7pJcVqqa5zR8=/473x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 473w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/D__LzSNFfDX9585CEhpJ1co8uOY=/646x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 646w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/VaZpESCrNo2hXP0A4qn7OkX1xA4=/994x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 994w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint stands out for a few reasons. It’s one of the most popular budgeting apps available, with over 25 million users. The app is free and easy to use for budgeters of all levels. You can also set up bill payment reminders, track investments, and access your TransUnion credit score—all of which makes Mint our choice for best free budgeting app.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-11\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free TransUnion credit scores</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Investment tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product advertisements</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Spending categorization could be better</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-12\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint offers the best-known free budgeting app on the market. It’s a great option for anyone looking to improve their spending habits. The app is free but you may see targeted financial product advertisements. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-13\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You may sync your financial accounts within the app or manually add transactions. Mint allows you to see all your accounts in one place and keep track of your spending on a daily basis. The app automatically organizes your spending, so you can see totals by category at a glance. Mint also offers monthly bill tracking, including payment reminders to avoid late fees. The app also offers the ability to keep track of your investments and check portfolio fees. Mint offers a few education resources like a home affordability calculator, loan repayment calculator, and blog with a variety of personal finance topics. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-14\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint protects your data through features like security scanning with Verisign, multi-factor authentication, and touch ID mobile access. The company stores your login information in a separate database with multiple layers of hardware and software encryption.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR CASH FLOW</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Simplifi by Quicken</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-2\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3HWXtn-XmigeKZylVDR8Q9xLSmk=/1012x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-2\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/aIcmtqophkrYNpL3SZXjlFhYbbw=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/5-J7AK3djgITfwIiSfiWOBYUJgk=/478x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 478w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/mEWtJyO3pPgb0YAkrGiikL9vSkA=/656x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 656w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/cPO4m_gc6KNxQTiUKUaMZ7SwFJk=/1012x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 1012w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-17\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken earns high marks because it offers a personalized spending plan with real-time updates of how much you have left to spend throughout the month. The app syncs your bank accounts to show you where you stand and your progress on financial goals. Simplifi by Quicken also tracks your monthly bills and subscriptions, including those you don’t use.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-18\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong cash flow tools</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Watch lists for mindful spending</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 30-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$35.99 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-19\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken ranks best for cash flow because of the app’s effective tracking capabilities. It’s the best option for staying on top of how much you can spend between your paychecks. The app offers a free 30-day trial and then you will pay $2.99 per month (billed annually at $35.99) or $3.99 per month if you choose not to pay upfront.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-20\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started, you have to sync bank accounts, and then you will have a complete snapshot of your finances. The app automatically categorizes your spending, tracks recurring bills and subscriptions, and stays on top of upcoming expenses. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-21\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">One standout feature is the app’s custom watchlists, which allow you to limit spending by category or payee. Also, the custom spending plan monitors cash flow to make sure you never spend more than you make. Simplifi by Quicken offers tips while you’re using the app, but there’s also a blog full of educational content at your fingertips. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-22\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Security and privacy are top priorities for Quicken, the app’s parent company. Quicken has been trusted with sensitive financial data for decades (since 1985) and continues to work on new security measures. The app uses 256-bit encryption to transmit banking data and keeps the information confidential.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR OVERSPENDERS</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">PocketGuard</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-3\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/6ZXWy9DDs7S9X5kdjAPqg1Byaho=/640x599/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-3\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/-ACmvoAaDKmYXZW5PZ4-2OOWLB0=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/HA2KdrZq0T0c8dilbm9IvL5t74Q=/385x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 385w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8E7ttf_Fz50Um_4eaGv81MtEqYI=/470x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 470w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/fwnkGREU76vhIvtGU42zHGMkAxk=/640x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 640w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-25\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard made the cut because the app helps curb overspending. The company uses an algorithm to track your income, expenses, and savings goals to tell you how much you can spend every day. These spending limits make it easier to quit overspending and take control of your financial goals.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-26\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free basic budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cash flow at a glance</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Easy to use</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus has a cost</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No phone support</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-27\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard earned the top spot as best for overspenders because its features focus on helping users take control of overspending. The app offers a free and a paid, premium version, PocketGuard Plus.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-28\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started you need to connect your checking, savings, and credit card accounts. The app can see what you are spending, where to save, and reminds you when credit card bills are due. PocketGuard\'s \"In My Pocket\" feature uses an algorithm to identify how much money you can spend based on your income, upcoming bills, goals, recent spending, and budgets. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-29\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The app offers a smart bill reminder to keep track of due dates and shows where you may be able to negotiate for lower bills. There’s also an automated savings feature, which allows you to set a goal and save for it. PocketGuard automatically moves the money to an FDIC-insured bank account on your behalf.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-30\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus offers additional features like creating your categories, changing transaction dates, the ability to export data, tracking cash, managing ATM deposits and withdrawals, and splitting up transactions. The company also publishes an educational blog for additional opportunities to learn. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-31\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard prioritizes security with 256-bit encryption, a four-digit PIN, and biometrics like Touch ID and Face ID as another layer of protection.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR BUILDING WEALTH</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Personal Capital</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-4\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/Ld-My3aY50ecxQKmfmbN67iVh3A=/1233x479/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-4\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/jDRLOpu_7eOGCxOpD0JnT2ijh7k=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/o6kWG7eLhwClCKfxFvg10cl8Ois=/533x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 533w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/ZciaZyzZi-6C8-JiN0C5s4HvyW4=/766x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 766w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vTN2ZotUOIi4wuW2BKJcllWrCgs=/1233x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 1233w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-34\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital scores high because the company offers the best free tools for wealth building. You can sync your financial accounts in one place to track your net worth, plan for the future with the Retirement Planner, and use the Fee Analyzer to check portfolio fees.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-35\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free wealth management app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Retirement Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Education Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Net worth tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Fee Analyzer tool for your portfolio</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Less focused on budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No option to manually add transactions for budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Sales calls for wealth management services</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-36\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital lands at the top of our list with the best app for building wealth. You can use the product’s dashboards to sync accounts for a complete picture of your finances. The company’s primary app is free, with the option to add investment management services for 0.89% of your money for accounts under $1 million.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-37\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Unfortunately, Personal Capital doesn’t allow you to manually add budgeting transactions, but you can manually add investments without syncing those accounts. You can use Personal Capital’s budgeting tools to see your total income and expenses every month. While you can’t create specific goals, you can add a budget, compare to previous months, and see your spending by categories. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Although the company’s budgeting features aren’t as comprehensive as others, Personal Capital does offer better investing tools. You can use the dashboard to see changes to your net worth over time, and Personal Capital’s Fee Analyzer gives you a closer look into your portfolio fees. You may also prepare for the future with the company’s Retirement Planner tool or save for college with the Education Planner tool. Personal Capital’s blog, Daily Capital, covers a range of financial planning topics for beginners to more experienced users alike.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-39\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital protects your data with encryption, fraud protection, and robust authentication. No one has access to your individual login credentials, and the company’s partnership with Yodlee, a veteran financial technology company, offers another layer of security.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR COUPLES </span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Zeta</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-5\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3RVsF6IgRqA52h4uof95dCnPPGA=/960x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-5\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vkfrxfR7MQxbepeTr3U1hgYFACA=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8Vt8zOjWFJFMvDzHpk6Oc7v3y-g=/465x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 465w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/QLqj0nEH5_BqoqkMxh_HXHD5yF8=/630x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 630w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/OScioWYq3rzIjKKBAFdJKpxc2aw=/960x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 960w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-42\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta is one of the few free budgeting apps designed specifically for couples, joint finances or not. The app caters to all types of couples, including those who are living together, engaged, married, or new parents. You can sync various accounts to track spending, see your net worth, and manage bills together.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-43\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You can also sign up for a joint no-fee banking account and cards with features like early access to direct deposit, digital checks, access to the MoneyPass ATM network, contactless payments, and bill pay. All of these enhanced features make Zeta our choice as best for couples.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-44\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app and no-fee joint bank account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Designed for all types of couples</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Low APY for joint account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product recommendations</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-45\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta earns a spot on our list because the free budgeting app caters to all types of couples. The product also offers a free joint bank account to manage spending and paying bills together. Zeta’s Money Manager app and Joint Cards are free, but the company may offer paid services in the future. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-46\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Money Manager app allows you to sync accounts or manually add data for a shared view of your finances. The app can create budgets, track spending, set up joint goals, and manage bills. A few standout features include sharing controls, shared and personal budgets, bill reminders, and more. Zeta offers monthly insights on your finances and how you can make improvements. Zeta’s Money Date Mag, an online publication covering love and money in the modern age, includes articles to boost your financial knowledge.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-47\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Joint Cards offer bank account access with FDIC insurance through LendingClub Bank, no monthly fees or minimums, and 0.14% APY. The account provides special features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay. The company uses state-of-the-art, bank-level security to keep your data safe. They don’t store your financial logins, and the company uses two-factor authentication and data encrypted databases.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"article-outro_1-0\" class=\"comp article-container article-outro mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"article-outro__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page--commerce expert-content article-outro__content prm-sc-page mntl-sc-page mntl-block\">\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"faqs\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">FAQs</span></h2>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-1\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Are Budgeting Apps? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">A budgeting app is a software application that you may access from your computer, tablet, or mobile device to track your personal finances. This may include tracking your income, expenses, savings, debt payoff, investing, or a combination to improve your financial health. Budgeting apps are different from accounting software, which is typically for a business’s income and expenses.  </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting apps may sync with your financial accounts to offer an overview of your situation as changes happen. The most common use of budgeting apps is to track spending through a synced checking account. Many people aren’t aware of how much money they spend every month, which can make changes more difficult. A budgeting app may organize spending history into categories to identify trends, making the user aware of their habits over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-4\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Should I Pay for an App or Use a Free One? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">When it comes to budgeting, everyone has their own preferences, including the willingness to invest money in a subscription-based budgeting app. Both free and subscription-based budgeting apps have pros and cons to consider. While spending money to improve your budget may seem counterintuitive, a premium app could be worth the cost if you make long-term changes. In some cases, the monthly or annual fee could pay for itself, but this may not be true for all subscription-based budgeting apps. A free 30-day trial is the easiest way to see if an app is worth the investment. If you enjoy using the app and feel motivated to continue, the monthly or annual fee could pay off. After all, the best budgeting system is one you are willing to stick with over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-6\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Features Should I Look For? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most budgeting apps offer the ability to sync your bank accounts. You may collect your income and consumer spending data into the app. Many apps can track your spending and organize your expenses into categories, which allows you to see trends over time. These features may make it easier to understand your spending habits and make better choices. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-8\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some apps take it a step further with automated savings, suggestions to save money, bill alerts, access to credit scores, and investing features. For apps with a savings component, you should make sure the account is FDIC-insured. You may also consider the account’s APY and how it compares to high-interest online savings accounts, which may also offer free budgeting tools. Depending on how much money you’re saving, it could be better to switch to an online, tech-focused bank offering a higher APY.     </span></p>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"how-we-chose-the-best-budgeting-apps\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-9\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">How We Chose the Best Budgeting Apps </span></h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting is a challenge for many people. While many folks want to reel in spending, it can be tedious to manually track expenses with a spreadsheet, which makes giving up all too easy. Luckily, there are budgeting apps to automate the process. The only problem is, the market is flooded with free and subscription-based budgeting apps, and most people don’t have the time or energy to spend a month testing each out. Fortunately, we have done the heavy lifting for you. To create our roundup of the best budgeting apps, we considered 15 of the best companies on the market. We compared each app’s budgeting functionality, pricing, free trials, and user reviews. We compared the product features, educational tools, security, and how each app accesses your financial data. All of our picks are free, offer a free version, or have a free trial, so you won’t have to waste money on a budgeting app that doesn’t suit your needs. </span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To read the full article,</span> <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/best-budgeting-apps-5085405\">click here</a>.</span></div>\n</div>\n</div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Best Budgeting Apps','','inherit','closed','closed','','1282-revision-v1','','','2021-04-14 00:58:52','2021-04-14 00:58:52','',1282,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1282-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1380,1,'2021-04-13 16:54:37','2021-04-13 16:54:37','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"0px|||||\"]<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Best Budgeting Apps</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"||0px|||\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<p><span><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Budget-apps-1024x683.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1279 aligncenter size-large\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Manage your money with these budgeting apps</strong></span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most people would prefer to spend less and save more, but the day-to-day reality of work, family life, and other commitments makes it impractical, if not seemingly impossible. Let’s face it, it’s tough to find the time or motivation for budgeting, and some folks skip it altogether.</span></p>\n<div class=\"loc article-intro article-content__description article-container expert-content \">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">For these and many other reasons, budgeting apps have become increasingly popular over the past decade. This software makes it easier to monitor your spending and saving habits by linking accounts to an application and tracking your cash flow. These apps, free or paid, offer a range of features to improve your finances.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We reviewed 15 of the best budgeting apps on the market to find the best options for new or experienced budgeters. We compared cost, functionality, features, security, reviews, and more. These are the best options to improve your budget.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n<div id=\"product-roundup-content__summary-list_1-0\" class=\"comp js-toc-appear product-roundup-content__summary-list summary-list--roundup summary-list\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 class=\"summary-list__title\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The 6 Best Budgeting Apps of 2021</span></h2>\n<ul class=\"summary-list__content\">\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Overall:</strong> You Need a Budget (YNAB)</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Free Budgeting App:</strong> Mint</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Cash Flow:</strong> Simplifi by Quicken</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Overspenders:</strong> PocketGuard</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Building Wealth:</strong> Personal Capital</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Couples:</strong> Zeta</span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-body\">\n<div class=\"loc article-left-nav article-body__left-nav product-roundup__left-nav js-sticky-container\">\n<div id=\"product-roundup__toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc-widget product-roundup__toc sticky-toc--finance sticky-toc--base mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-desktop-bp=\"54em\" data-chop-desktop=\"false\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\"></div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST OVERALL </span></span></h3>\n<h3 class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">You Need a Budget (YNAB)</span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/PqHgTIY395mHf1x4m1YweQ58QN0=/1292x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/MrvDttJe1b-DFuDYHwOn4Xv1n7E=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/KZEpDwjtLbaGsu4P-QByHyIyW1g=/548x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 548w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/n0s9d_Ym0LKW3WYngdKFykUrpSY=/796x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 796w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/bjhJaHqJA7IBXwXAoqx3oiZ5fGo=/1292x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 1292w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-link-closest-header=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".mntl-sc-commerce-btn-list__btn\"></div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You Need a Budget, or YNAB, earns the top spot because of the company’s renowned budgeting philosophy and reputation. YNAB says new budgeters typically save $600 in their first two months and more than $6,000 in their first year. Although YNAB is the most costly option on our list, the company offers a 34-day free trial and a 100% no-risk, money-back guarantee.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Complete budget makeover</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 34-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">100% money-back guarantee</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong customer service and comprehensive education</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$84 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">More time-intensive to learn</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Recent sync issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB rises to the top of our list because of its budgeting philosophy and money-back guarantee. The company offers a free trial for 34 days (no credit card required) and after that, the cost is $84 per year. If you prefer to pay less upfront, the cost is $11.99 per month.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB offers the ability to sync your bank accounts, import your data from a file, or manually enter each transaction. To begin, the company suggests learning the basics about the app through video courses, a live workshop, or reading a guide. YNAB offers a proactive budgeting approach, rather than tracking what you have already spent, like some competitors.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-6\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">After signing up, you create your first budget and assign every dollar a purpose, like your rent or car payment, for example. The goal is to eventually get at least one month ahead, so you’re spending money you earned from 30 days ago. The company offers extensive educational resources and customer support to keep you on track.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB says privacy and security are its top priority. The company protects your information by using bank-level encryption for all data, best practices for password security, third-party audits, and more.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FREE BUDGETING APP</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Mint</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-1\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/kynqNmNVT3Lhi0x3NZMGVV3GFUE=/994x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-1\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/y9IXs9i9-z1S1ZD0fa84xcpM6Qg=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/P_VB8LUd6EebQxo7pJcVqqa5zR8=/473x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 473w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/D__LzSNFfDX9585CEhpJ1co8uOY=/646x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 646w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/VaZpESCrNo2hXP0A4qn7OkX1xA4=/994x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 994w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint stands out for a few reasons. It’s one of the most popular budgeting apps available, with over 25 million users. The app is free and easy to use for budgeters of all levels. You can also set up bill payment reminders, track investments, and access your TransUnion credit score—all of which makes Mint our choice for best free budgeting app.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-11\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free TransUnion credit scores</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Investment tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product advertisements</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Spending categorization could be better</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-12\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint offers the best-known free budgeting app on the market. It’s a great option for anyone looking to improve their spending habits. The app is free but you may see targeted financial product advertisements. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-13\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You may sync your financial accounts within the app or manually add transactions. Mint allows you to see all your accounts in one place and keep track of your spending on a daily basis. The app automatically organizes your spending, so you can see totals by category at a glance. Mint also offers monthly bill tracking, including payment reminders to avoid late fees. The app also offers the ability to keep track of your investments and check portfolio fees. Mint offers a few education resources like a home affordability calculator, loan repayment calculator, and blog with a variety of personal finance topics. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-14\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint protects your data through features like security scanning with Verisign, multi-factor authentication, and touch ID mobile access. The company stores your login information in a separate database with multiple layers of hardware and software encryption.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR CASH FLOW</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Simplifi by Quicken</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-2\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3HWXtn-XmigeKZylVDR8Q9xLSmk=/1012x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-2\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/aIcmtqophkrYNpL3SZXjlFhYbbw=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/5-J7AK3djgITfwIiSfiWOBYUJgk=/478x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 478w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/mEWtJyO3pPgb0YAkrGiikL9vSkA=/656x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 656w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/cPO4m_gc6KNxQTiUKUaMZ7SwFJk=/1012x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 1012w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-17\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken earns high marks because it offers a personalized spending plan with real-time updates of how much you have left to spend throughout the month. The app syncs your bank accounts to show you where you stand and your progress on financial goals. Simplifi by Quicken also tracks your monthly bills and subscriptions, including those you don’t use.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-18\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong cash flow tools</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Watch lists for mindful spending</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 30-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$35.99 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-19\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken ranks best for cash flow because of the app’s effective tracking capabilities. It’s the best option for staying on top of how much you can spend between your paychecks. The app offers a free 30-day trial and then you will pay $2.99 per month (billed annually at $35.99) or $3.99 per month if you choose not to pay upfront.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-20\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started, you have to sync bank accounts, and then you will have a complete snapshot of your finances. The app automatically categorizes your spending, tracks recurring bills and subscriptions, and stays on top of upcoming expenses. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-21\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">One standout feature is the app’s custom watchlists, which allow you to limit spending by category or payee. Also, the custom spending plan monitors cash flow to make sure you never spend more than you make. Simplifi by Quicken offers tips while you’re using the app, but there’s also a blog full of educational content at your fingertips. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-22\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Security and privacy are top priorities for Quicken, the app’s parent company. Quicken has been trusted with sensitive financial data for decades (since 1985) and continues to work on new security measures. The app uses 256-bit encryption to transmit banking data and keeps the information confidential.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR OVERSPENDERS</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">PocketGuard</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-3\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/6ZXWy9DDs7S9X5kdjAPqg1Byaho=/640x599/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-3\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/-ACmvoAaDKmYXZW5PZ4-2OOWLB0=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/HA2KdrZq0T0c8dilbm9IvL5t74Q=/385x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 385w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8E7ttf_Fz50Um_4eaGv81MtEqYI=/470x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 470w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/fwnkGREU76vhIvtGU42zHGMkAxk=/640x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 640w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-25\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard made the cut because the app helps curb overspending. The company uses an algorithm to track your income, expenses, and savings goals to tell you how much you can spend every day. These spending limits make it easier to quit overspending and take control of your financial goals.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-26\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free basic budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cash flow at a glance</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Easy to use</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus has a cost</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No phone support</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-27\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard earned the top spot as best for overspenders because its features focus on helping users take control of overspending. The app offers a free and a paid, premium version, PocketGuard Plus.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-28\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started you need to connect your checking, savings, and credit card accounts. The app can see what you are spending, where to save, and reminds you when credit card bills are due. PocketGuard\'s \"In My Pocket\" feature uses an algorithm to identify how much money you can spend based on your income, upcoming bills, goals, recent spending, and budgets. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-29\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The app offers a smart bill reminder to keep track of due dates and shows where you may be able to negotiate for lower bills. There’s also an automated savings feature, which allows you to set a goal and save for it. PocketGuard automatically moves the money to an FDIC-insured bank account on your behalf.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-30\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus offers additional features like creating your categories, changing transaction dates, the ability to export data, tracking cash, managing ATM deposits and withdrawals, and splitting up transactions. The company also publishes an educational blog for additional opportunities to learn. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-31\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard prioritizes security with 256-bit encryption, a four-digit PIN, and biometrics like Touch ID and Face ID as another layer of protection.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR BUILDING WEALTH</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Personal Capital</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-4\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/Ld-My3aY50ecxQKmfmbN67iVh3A=/1233x479/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-4\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/jDRLOpu_7eOGCxOpD0JnT2ijh7k=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/o6kWG7eLhwClCKfxFvg10cl8Ois=/533x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 533w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/ZciaZyzZi-6C8-JiN0C5s4HvyW4=/766x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 766w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vTN2ZotUOIi4wuW2BKJcllWrCgs=/1233x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 1233w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-34\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital scores high because the company offers the best free tools for wealth building. You can sync your financial accounts in one place to track your net worth, plan for the future with the Retirement Planner, and use the Fee Analyzer to check portfolio fees.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-35\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free wealth management app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Retirement Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Education Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Net worth tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Fee Analyzer tool for your portfolio</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Less focused on budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No option to manually add transactions for budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Sales calls for wealth management services</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-36\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital lands at the top of our list with the best app for building wealth. You can use the product’s dashboards to sync accounts for a complete picture of your finances. The company’s primary app is free, with the option to add investment management services for 0.89% of your money for accounts under $1 million.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-37\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Unfortunately, Personal Capital doesn’t allow you to manually add budgeting transactions, but you can manually add investments without syncing those accounts. You can use Personal Capital’s budgeting tools to see your total income and expenses every month. While you can’t create specific goals, you can add a budget, compare to previous months, and see your spending by categories. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Although the company’s budgeting features aren’t as comprehensive as others, Personal Capital does offer better investing tools. You can use the dashboard to see changes to your net worth over time, and Personal Capital’s Fee Analyzer gives you a closer look into your portfolio fees. You may also prepare for the future with the company’s Retirement Planner tool or save for college with the Education Planner tool. Personal Capital’s blog, Daily Capital, covers a range of financial planning topics for beginners to more experienced users alike.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-39\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital protects your data with encryption, fraud protection, and robust authentication. No one has access to your individual login credentials, and the company’s partnership with Yodlee, a veteran financial technology company, offers another layer of security.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR COUPLES </span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Zeta</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-5\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3RVsF6IgRqA52h4uof95dCnPPGA=/960x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-5\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vkfrxfR7MQxbepeTr3U1hgYFACA=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8Vt8zOjWFJFMvDzHpk6Oc7v3y-g=/465x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 465w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/QLqj0nEH5_BqoqkMxh_HXHD5yF8=/630x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 630w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/OScioWYq3rzIjKKBAFdJKpxc2aw=/960x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 960w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-42\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta is one of the few free budgeting apps designed specifically for couples, joint finances or not. The app caters to all types of couples, including those who are living together, engaged, married, or new parents. You can sync various accounts to track spending, see your net worth, and manage bills together.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-43\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You can also sign up for a joint no-fee banking account and cards with features like early access to direct deposit, digital checks, access to the MoneyPass ATM network, contactless payments, and bill pay. All of these enhanced features make Zeta our choice as best for couples.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-44\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app and no-fee joint bank account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Designed for all types of couples</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Low APY for joint account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product recommendations</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-45\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta earns a spot on our list because the free budgeting app caters to all types of couples. The product also offers a free joint bank account to manage spending and paying bills together. Zeta’s Money Manager app and Joint Cards are free, but the company may offer paid services in the future. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-46\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Money Manager app allows you to sync accounts or manually add data for a shared view of your finances. The app can create budgets, track spending, set up joint goals, and manage bills. A few standout features include sharing controls, shared and personal budgets, bill reminders, and more. Zeta offers monthly insights on your finances and how you can make improvements. Zeta’s Money Date Mag, an online publication covering love and money in the modern age, includes articles to boost your financial knowledge.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-47\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Joint Cards offer bank account access with FDIC insurance through LendingClub Bank, no monthly fees or minimums, and 0.14% APY. The account provides special features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay. The company uses state-of-the-art, bank-level security to keep your data safe. They don’t store your financial logins, and the company uses two-factor authentication and data encrypted databases.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"article-outro_1-0\" class=\"comp article-container article-outro mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"article-outro__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page--commerce expert-content article-outro__content prm-sc-page mntl-sc-page mntl-block\">\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"faqs\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">FAQs</span></h2>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-1\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Are Budgeting Apps? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">A budgeting app is a software application that you may access from your computer, tablet, or mobile device to track your personal finances. This may include tracking your income, expenses, savings, debt payoff, investing, or a combination to improve your financial health. Budgeting apps are different from accounting software, which is typically for a business’s income and expenses.  </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting apps may sync with your financial accounts to offer an overview of your situation as changes happen. The most common use of budgeting apps is to track spending through a synced checking account. Many people aren’t aware of how much money they spend every month, which can make changes more difficult. A budgeting app may organize spending history into categories to identify trends, making the user aware of their habits over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-4\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Should I Pay for an App or Use a Free One? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">When it comes to budgeting, everyone has their own preferences, including the willingness to invest money in a subscription-based budgeting app. Both free and subscription-based budgeting apps have pros and cons to consider. While spending money to improve your budget may seem counterintuitive, a premium app could be worth the cost if you make long-term changes. In some cases, the monthly or annual fee could pay for itself, but this may not be true for all subscription-based budgeting apps. A free 30-day trial is the easiest way to see if an app is worth the investment. If you enjoy using the app and feel motivated to continue, the monthly or annual fee could pay off. After all, the best budgeting system is one you are willing to stick with over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-6\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Features Should I Look For? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most budgeting apps offer the ability to sync your bank accounts. You may collect your income and consumer spending data into the app. Many apps can track your spending and organize your expenses into categories, which allows you to see trends over time. These features may make it easier to understand your spending habits and make better choices. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-8\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some apps take it a step further with automated savings, suggestions to save money, bill alerts, access to credit scores, and investing features. For apps with a savings component, you should make sure the account is FDIC-insured. You may also consider the account’s APY and how it compares to high-interest online savings accounts, which may also offer free budgeting tools. Depending on how much money you’re saving, it could be better to switch to an online, tech-focused bank offering a higher APY.     </span></p>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"how-we-chose-the-best-budgeting-apps\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-9\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">How We Chose the Best Budgeting Apps </span></h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting is a challenge for many people. While many folks want to reel in spending, it can be tedious to manually track expenses with a spreadsheet, which makes giving up all too easy. Luckily, there are budgeting apps to automate the process. The only problem is, the market is flooded with free and subscription-based budgeting apps, and most people don’t have the time or energy to spend a month testing each out. Fortunately, we have done the heavy lifting for you. To create our roundup of the best budgeting apps, we considered 15 of the best companies on the market. We compared each app’s budgeting functionality, pricing, free trials, and user reviews. We compared the product features, educational tools, security, and how each app accesses your financial data. All of our picks are free, offer a free version, or have a free trial, so you won’t have to waste money on a budgeting app that doesn’t suit your needs. </span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To read the full article,</span> <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/best-budgeting-apps-5085405\">click here</a>.</span></div>\n</div>\n</div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Best Budgeting Apps','','inherit','closed','closed','','1282-revision-v1','','','2021-04-13 16:54:37','2021-04-13 16:54:37','',1282,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1282-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1285,1,'2021-04-12 21:19:25','2021-04-12 21:19:25','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" hover_enabled=\"0\" custom_padding=\"0px|||||\"]<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Best Budgeting Apps</strong></span></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\" custom_padding=\"||0px|||\"]<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\">\n<div align=\"center\">\n<p><span><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Budget-apps-1024x683.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1279 aligncenter size-large\" style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Manage your money with these budgeting apps</strong></span></p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most people would prefer to spend less and save more, but the day-to-day reality of work, family life, and other commitments makes it impractical, if not seemingly impossible. Let’s face it, it’s tough to find the time or motivation for budgeting, and some folks skip it altogether.</span></p>\n<div class=\"loc article-intro article-content__description article-container expert-content \">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">For these and many other reasons, budgeting apps have become increasingly popular over the past decade. This software makes it easier to monitor your spending and saving habits by linking accounts to an application and tracking your cash flow. These apps, free or paid, offer a range of features to improve your finances.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">We reviewed 15 of the best budgeting apps on the market to find the best options for new or experienced budgeters. We compared cost, functionality, features, security, reviews, and more. These are the best options to improve your budget.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n<div id=\"product-roundup-content__summary-list_1-0\" class=\"comp js-toc-appear product-roundup-content__summary-list summary-list--roundup summary-list\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"summary-list\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h2 class=\"summary-list__title\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The 6 Best Budgeting Apps of 2021</span></h2>\n<ul class=\"summary-list__content\">\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Overall:</strong> <a href=\"https://youneedabudget.a4xxmk.net/c/2104074/869639/10892?subid1=5085405&amp;subid2=nda72bc70c3d84b3cad2762dad847928f20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" data-affiliate-link-rewriter=\"subid1=${DOC_ID}&amp;subid2=${REQUEST_ID}\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You Need a Budget (YNAB)</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best Free Budgeting App:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.mint.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Cash Flow:</strong> <a href=\"https://simplifi.sjv.io/c/2104074/946869/11855?subId1=5085405&amp;sharedid=Investopedia&amp;subid1=5085405&amp;subid2=nda72bc70c3d84b3cad2762dad847928f20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" data-affiliate-link-rewriter=\"subid1=${DOC_ID}&amp;subid2=${REQUEST_ID}\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Overspenders:</strong> <a href=\"https://pocketguard.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Building Wealth:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.personalcapital.com/get-started/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong class=\"summary-list__item-category\">Best for Couples:</strong> <a href=\"https://www.askzeta.com/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\" class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta</a></span></li>\n<li class=\"summary-list__item\"><span class=\"summary-list__item-top-pick-container\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div class=\"article-body\">\n<div class=\"loc article-left-nav article-body__left-nav product-roundup__left-nav js-sticky-container\">\n<div id=\"product-roundup__toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc-widget product-roundup__toc sticky-toc--finance sticky-toc--base mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-desktop-bp=\"54em\" data-chop-desktop=\"false\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"false\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\"></div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-overall-you-need-a-budget-ynab\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST OVERALL </span></span></h3>\n<h3 class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span class=\"split-text__item\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">You Need a Budget (YNAB)</span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/PqHgTIY395mHf1x4m1YweQ58QN0=/1292x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/MrvDttJe1b-DFuDYHwOn4Xv1n7E=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/KZEpDwjtLbaGsu4P-QByHyIyW1g=/548x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 548w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/n0s9d_Ym0LKW3WYngdKFykUrpSY=/796x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 796w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/bjhJaHqJA7IBXwXAoqx3oiZ5fGo=/1292x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/YNAB-7208378868ab4c25b8dcb45a241b8d10.jpg 1292w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-commerce mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-link-closest-header=\"false\" data-use-child-url=\".mntl-sc-commerce-btn-list__btn\"></div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You Need a Budget, or YNAB, earns the top spot because of the company’s renowned budgeting philosophy and reputation. YNAB says new budgeters typically save $600 in their first two months and more than $6,000 in their first year. Although YNAB is the most costly option on our list, the company offers a 34-day free trial and a 100% no-risk, money-back guarantee.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Complete <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/budget.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">budget</a> makeover</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 34-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">100% money-back guarantee</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong customer service and comprehensive education</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$84 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">More time-intensive to learn</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Recent sync issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB rises to the top of our list because of its budgeting philosophy and money-back guarantee. The company offers a free trial for 34 days (no credit card required) and after that, the cost is $84 per year. If you prefer to pay less upfront, the cost is $11.99 per month.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB offers the ability to sync your bank accounts, import your data from a file, or manually enter each transaction. To begin, the company suggests learning the basics about the app through video courses, a live workshop, or reading a guide. YNAB offers a proactive budgeting approach, rather than tracking what you have already spent, like some competitors.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-6\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">After signing up, you create your first budget and assign every dollar a purpose, like your rent or car payment, for example. The goal is to eventually get at least one month ahead, so you’re spending money you earned from 30 days ago. The company offers extensive educational resources and customer support to keep you on track.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">YNAB says privacy and security are its top priority. The company protects your information by using bank-level encryption for all data, best practices for password security, third-party audits, and more.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-free-budgeting-app-mint\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FREE BUDGETING APP</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Mint</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-1\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-1\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-1\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/kynqNmNVT3Lhi0x3NZMGVV3GFUE=/994x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-1\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/y9IXs9i9-z1S1ZD0fa84xcpM6Qg=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/P_VB8LUd6EebQxo7pJcVqqa5zR8=/473x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 473w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/D__LzSNFfDX9585CEhpJ1co8uOY=/646x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 646w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/VaZpESCrNo2hXP0A4qn7OkX1xA4=/994x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Intuit_Mint-ccce2f47b614476ead7781da5a0ca22c.jpg 994w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/082216/how-mintcom-makes-money-intu.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint</a> stands out for a few reasons. It’s one of the most popular budgeting apps available, with over 25 million users. The app is free and easy to use for budgeters of all levels. You can also set up bill payment reminders, track investments, and access your TransUnion credit score—all of which makes Mint our choice for best free budgeting app.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-11\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free TransUnion <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/credit_score.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">credit scores</a></span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Investment tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product advertisements</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Spending categorization could be better</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-12\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint offers the best-known free budgeting app on the market. It’s a great <a href=\"https://www.kubera.com/blog/personal-capital-vs-mint-vs-kubera\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"externalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">option</a> for anyone looking to improve their spending habits. The app is free but you may see targeted financial product advertisements. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-13\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You may sync your financial accounts within the app or manually add transactions. Mint allows you to see all your accounts in one place and keep track of your spending on a daily basis. The app automatically organizes your spending, so you can see totals by category at a glance. Mint also offers monthly bill tracking, including payment reminders to avoid late fees. The app also offers the ability to keep track of your investments and check <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/portfolio.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">portfolio</a> fees. Mint offers a few education resources like a home affordability calculator, loan repayment calculator, and blog with a variety of personal finance topics. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-14\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mint protects your data through features like security scanning with Verisign, multi-factor authentication, and touch ID mobile access. The company stores your login information in a separate database with multiple layers of hardware and software encryption.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-cash-flow-simplifi-by-quicken\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR CASH FLOW</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Simplifi by Quicken</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-2\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-2\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3HWXtn-XmigeKZylVDR8Q9xLSmk=/1012x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-2\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/aIcmtqophkrYNpL3SZXjlFhYbbw=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/5-J7AK3djgITfwIiSfiWOBYUJgk=/478x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 478w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/mEWtJyO3pPgb0YAkrGiikL9vSkA=/656x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 656w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/cPO4m_gc6KNxQTiUKUaMZ7SwFJk=/1012x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Simplifi-40eab358e2824b809f871acf7bf89a86.jpg 1012w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-17\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken earns high marks because it offers a personalized spending plan with real-time updates of how much you have left to spend throughout the month. The app syncs your bank accounts to show you where you stand and your progress on financial goals. Simplifi by Quicken also tracks your monthly bills and subscriptions, including those you don’t use.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-18\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Strong cash flow tools</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Watch lists for mindful spending</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free 30-day trial</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">$35.99 per year</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-19\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Simplifi by Quicken ranks best for cash flow because of the app’s effective tracking capabilities. It’s the best option for staying on top of how much you can spend between your paychecks. The app offers a free 30-day trial and then you will pay $2.99 per month (billed annually at $35.99) or $3.99 per month if you choose not to pay upfront.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-20\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started, you have to sync bank accounts, and then you will have a complete snapshot of your finances. The app automatically categorizes your spending, tracks recurring bills and subscriptions, and stays on top of upcoming expenses. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-21\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">One standout feature is the app’s custom watchlists, which allow you to limit spending by category or payee. Also, the custom spending plan monitors cash flow to make sure you never spend more than you make. Simplifi by Quicken offers tips while you’re using the app, but there’s also a blog full of educational content at your fingertips. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-22\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Security and privacy are top priorities for Quicken, the app’s parent company. Quicken has been trusted with sensitive financial data for decades (since 1985) and continues to work on new security measures. The app uses 256-bit encryption to transmit banking data and keeps the information confidential.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-overspenders-pocketguard\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR OVERSPENDERS</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">PocketGuard</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-3\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-3\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/6ZXWy9DDs7S9X5kdjAPqg1Byaho=/640x599/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-3\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/-ACmvoAaDKmYXZW5PZ4-2OOWLB0=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/HA2KdrZq0T0c8dilbm9IvL5t74Q=/385x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 385w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8E7ttf_Fz50Um_4eaGv81MtEqYI=/470x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 470w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/fwnkGREU76vhIvtGU42zHGMkAxk=/640x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Pocket_Guard-a9f1cd0a0cef4d0b85295e5b49247427.jpg 640w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-25\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard made the cut because the app helps curb overspending. The company uses an algorithm to track your income, expenses, and savings goals to tell you how much you can spend every day. These spending limits make it easier to quit overspending and take control of your financial goals.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-26\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free basic budgeting app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cash flow at a glance</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Easy to use</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus has a cost</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No phone support</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some complaints about technical issues</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-27\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard earned the top spot as best for overspenders because its features focus on helping users take control of overspending. The app offers a free and a paid, premium version, PocketGuard Plus.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-28\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To get started you need to connect your checking, savings, and credit card accounts. The app can see what you are spending, where to save, and reminds you when credit card bills are due. PocketGuard\'s \"In My Pocket\" feature uses an algorithm to identify how much money you can spend based on your income, upcoming bills, goals, recent spending, and budgets. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-29\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The app offers a smart bill reminder to keep track of due dates and shows where you may be able to negotiate for lower bills. There’s also an automated savings feature, which allows you to set a goal and save for it. PocketGuard automatically moves the money to an FDIC-insured bank account on your behalf.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-30\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard Plus offers additional features like creating your categories, changing transaction dates, the ability to export data, tracking cash, managing ATM deposits and withdrawals, and splitting up transactions. The company also publishes an educational blog for additional opportunities to learn. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-31\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">PocketGuard prioritizes security with 256-bit encryption, a four-digit PIN, and biometrics like Touch ID and Face ID as another layer of protection.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-building-wealth-personal-capital\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR BUILDING WEALTH</span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Personal Capital</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-4\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-4\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-4\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/Ld-My3aY50ecxQKmfmbN67iVh3A=/1233x479/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-4\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/jDRLOpu_7eOGCxOpD0JnT2ijh7k=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/o6kWG7eLhwClCKfxFvg10cl8Ois=/533x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 533w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/ZciaZyzZi-6C8-JiN0C5s4HvyW4=/766x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 766w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vTN2ZotUOIi4wuW2BKJcllWrCgs=/1233x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/PersonalCapital-0709461f73f3499bac99149a3e76a3c4.jpg 1233w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-34\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital scores high because the company offers the best free tools for wealth building. You can sync your financial accounts in one place to track your <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/networth.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">net worth</a>, plan for the future with the Retirement Planner, and use the Fee Analyzer to check portfolio fees.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-35\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/w/wealthmanagement.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">wealth management</a> app</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Retirement Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Education Planner tool</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Net worth tracking</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Fee Analyzer tool for your portfolio</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Less focused on budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">No option to manually add transactions for budgeting</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Sales calls for wealth management services</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-36\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital lands at the top of our list with the best app for building wealth. You can use the product’s dashboards to sync accounts for a complete picture of your finances. The company’s primary app is free, with the option to add investment management services for 0.89% of your money for accounts under $1 million.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-37\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Unfortunately, Personal Capital doesn’t allow you to manually add budgeting transactions, but you can manually add investments without syncing those accounts. You can use Personal Capital’s budgeting tools to see your total income and expenses every month. While you can’t create specific goals, you can add a budget, compare to previous months, and see your spending by categories. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Although the company’s budgeting features aren’t as comprehensive as others, Personal Capital does offer better <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/i/investing.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">investing</a> tools. You can use the dashboard to see changes to your net worth over time, and Personal Capital’s Fee Analyzer gives you a closer look into your portfolio fees. You may also prepare for the future with the company’s Retirement Planner tool or save for college with the Education Planner tool. Personal Capital’s blog, Daily Capital, covers a range of financial planning topics for beginners to more experienced users alike.   </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-39\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Personal Capital protects your data with encryption, fraud protection, and robust authentication. No one has access to your individual login credentials, and the company’s partnership with Yodlee, a veteran financial technology company, offers another layer of security.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-list-item list-sc-item mntl-block\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><a class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"best-for-couples-zeta\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></a></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"list-sc-item__heading_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__heading split-text--roundup-title split-text\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">BEST FOR COUPLES </span></span><span class=\"split-text__item\"><span class=\"split-text__item-secondary\">Zeta</span></span></span></h3>\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__content_1-0-5\" class=\"comp list-sc-item__content mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"list-sc-item__intro_1-0-5\" class=\"comp expert-content list-sc-item__intro mntl-block\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-sc-block-commerce__image_1-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-commerce__image mntl-sc-block-image figure-high\">\n<div class=\"figure-media\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><img src=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/3RVsF6IgRqA52h4uof95dCnPPGA=/960x320/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg\" data-click-tracked=\"false\" data-tracking-container=\"true\" data_caption=\"model.caption!\'\'\" data_owner=\"model.owner!\'\'\" data-expand=\"300\" data-img-lightbox=\"false\" id=\"mntl-sc-block-image_1-0-5\" srcset=\"https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/vkfrxfR7MQxbepeTr3U1hgYFACA=/300x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 300w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/8Vt8zOjWFJFMvDzHpk6Oc7v3y-g=/465x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 465w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/QLqj0nEH5_BqoqkMxh_HXHD5yF8=/630x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 630w, https://www.investopedia.com/thmb/OScioWYq3rzIjKKBAFdJKpxc2aw=/960x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(webp)/Zeta-fbbb085f645e49e793bf408d26498ef9.jpg 960w\" /></span></div>\n</figure>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-42\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta is one of the few free budgeting apps designed specifically for couples, joint finances or not. The app caters to all types of couples, including those who are living together, engaged, married, or new parents. You can sync various accounts to track spending, see your net worth, and manage bills together.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-43\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">You can also sign up for a joint no-fee banking account and cards with features like early access to direct deposit, digital checks, access to the MoneyPass ATM network, contactless payments, and bill pay. All of these enhanced features make Zeta our choice as best for couples.</span></p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-44\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist\">\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Pros</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Free budgeting app and no-fee joint bank account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Designed for all types of couples</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n<div class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__wrapper\">\n<p><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__heading\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Cons</span></p>\n<ul class=\"mntl-sc-block-comparisonlist__list\">\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Low APY for joint account</span></p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">In-app product recommendations</span></p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n</div>\n</div>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-45\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Zeta earns a spot on our list because the free budgeting app caters to all types of couples. The product also offers a free joint bank account to manage spending and paying bills together. Zeta’s Money Manager app and Joint Cards are free, but the company may offer paid services in the future. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-46\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Money Manager app allows you to sync accounts or manually add data for a shared view of your finances. The app can create budgets, track spending, set up joint goals, and manage bills. A few standout features include sharing controls, shared and personal budgets, bill reminders, and more. Zeta offers monthly insights on your finances and how you can make improvements. Zeta’s Money Date Mag, an online publication covering love and money in the modern age, includes articles to boost your financial knowledge.</span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0-47\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The Zeta Joint Cards offer bank account access with FDIC insurance through LendingClub Bank, no monthly fees or minimums, and 0.14% APY. The account provides special features like early direct deposits, contactless payments, and bill pay. The company uses state-of-the-art, bank-level security to keep your data safe. They don’t store your financial logins, and the company uses two-factor authentication and data encrypted databases.</span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div id=\"article-outro_1-0\" class=\"comp article-container article-outro mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"article-outro__content_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page--commerce expert-content article-outro__content prm-sc-page mntl-sc-page mntl-block\">\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"faqs\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">FAQs</span></h2>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-1\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Are Budgeting Apps? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-2\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">A budgeting app is a software application that you may access from your computer, tablet, or mobile device to track your personal finances. This may include tracking your income, expenses, savings, debt payoff, investing, or a combination to improve your <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/financial-health.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">financial health</a>. Budgeting apps are different from accounting software, which is typically for a business’s income and expenses.  </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-3\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting apps may sync with your financial accounts to offer an overview of your situation as changes happen. The most common use of budgeting apps is to track spending through a synced checking account. Many people aren’t aware of how much money they spend every month, which can make changes more difficult. A budgeting app may organize spending history into categories to identify trends, making the user aware of their habits over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-4\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Should I Pay for an App or Use a Free One? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-5\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">When it comes to budgeting, everyone has their own preferences, including the willingness to invest money in a subscription-based budgeting app. Both free and subscription-based budgeting apps have pros and cons to consider. While spending money to improve your budget may seem counterintuitive, a premium app could be worth the cost if you make long-term changes. In some cases, the monthly or annual fee could pay for itself, but this may not be true for all subscription-based budgeting apps. A free 30-day trial is the easiest way to see if an app is worth the investment. If you enjoy using the app and feel motivated to continue, the monthly or annual fee could pay off. After all, the best budgeting system is one you are willing to stick with over time.  </span></p>\n<h3 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-6\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-subheading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-subheading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-subheading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">What Features Should I Look For? </span></h3>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-7\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Most budgeting apps offer the ability to sync your bank accounts. You may collect your income and <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/consumer-spending.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">consumer spending</a> data into the app. Many apps can track your spending and organize your expenses into categories, which allows you to see trends over time. These features may make it easier to understand your spending habits and make better choices. </span></p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-8\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some apps take it a step further with automated <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/savings.asp\" data-component=\"link\" data-source=\"inlineLink\" data-type=\"internalLink\" data-ordinal=\"1\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">savings</a>, suggestions to save money, bill alerts, access to credit scores, and investing features. For apps with a savings component, you should make sure the account is FDIC-insured. You may also consider the account’s APY and how it compares to high-interest online savings accounts, which may also offer free budgeting tools. Depending on how much money you’re saving, it could be better to switch to an online, tech-focused bank offering a higher APY.     </span></p>\n<p><span class=\"heading-toc\" id=\"how-we-chose-the-best-budgeting-apps\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-9\" class=\"comp finance-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text\" style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">How We Chose the Best Budgeting Apps </span></h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0-10\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Budgeting is a challenge for many people. While many folks want to reel in spending, it can be tedious to manually track expenses with a spreadsheet, which makes giving up all too easy. Luckily, there are budgeting apps to automate the process. The only problem is, the market is flooded with free and subscription-based budgeting apps, and most people don’t have the time or energy to spend a month testing each out. Fortunately, we have done the heavy lifting for you. To create our roundup of the best budgeting apps, we considered 15 of the best companies on the market. We compared each app’s budgeting functionality, pricing, free trials, and user reviews. We compared the product features, educational tools, security, and how each app accesses your financial data. All of our picks are free, offer a free version, or have a free trial, so you won’t have to waste money on a budgeting app that doesn’t suit your needs. </span></p>\n<p class=\"comp mntl-sc-block mntl-sc-block-html\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">To read the full article,</span> <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/best-budgeting-apps-5085405\">click here</a>.</span></div>\n</div>\n</div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Best Budgeting Apps','','inherit','closed','closed','','1282-revision-v1','','','2021-04-12 21:19:25','2021-04-12 21:19:25','',1282,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1282-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),(1384,1,'2021-04-13 17:09:27','2021-04-13 17:09:27','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<h1 class=\"single__title h1\" style=\"text-align: center;\"><strong>Managing Your Money During Coronavirus</strong></h1>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_column type=\"4_4\" _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.0.9\"]<div align=\"center\"></div>\n<div align=\"center\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"><img src=\"http://smartinsurance.tips/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Manage-money.jpg\" width=\"652\" height=\"433\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1296 aligncenter size-full\" /></span></p>\n<div class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"></div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0-38\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block finance-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\" style=\"text-align: justify;\">\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"> </span></p>\n<div class=\"single__body p\">\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">With coronavirus disrupting our daily lives, many people are worried about the effects on their budgets. Being told to sit on your hands and wait while uncertainty swirls around you can just add to your stress levels. Taking some practical steps to manage your money can give you a better handle on your finances right now.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Our mission at Simple is to help people feel more confident with their money, and that seems more important now than ever. We hope that the budgeting tools built in to your Simple Account—like Expenses and Safe-to Spend®—along with these tips can help you feel more in control while so many things in the world seem uncertain.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"the-big-economic-picture\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">The big economic picture</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Uncertainty drives anxiety—and that shows up in the economy. With reports of the stock market dropping and businesses scrambling, it’s easy to get caught up in that anxiety. But take a step back—and a deep breath—and look at the big picture.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Your Simple account is FDIC-insured (up to the legal limits) via our partner bank, BBVA USA. While interest rates may fluctuate, the balance in your checking account is unaffected by the market ups and downs</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Markets tend to return to health over the long term. Financial experts are giving a variety of advice, with some saying that, just like your face, your 401k or retirement accounts may be good things not to touch right now. But it all depends on your individual circumstances and how close you are to retirement, so consider talking to a financial advisor (or your HR rep, if you have a 401k at your job) about the smartest move for you right now</span></li>\n</ul>\n<h3></h3>\n<h3>Managing your savings<span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you have savings tucked away, like in a Protected Goals Account, you might be wondering how interest rate changes will affect you. It’s true that most interest rates will probably go down (meaning you earn less interest on your money), but your principal balance (the amount of actual money you have in the bank) won’t. So you might want to just sit tight and keep any savings you have available in case you encounter unexpected changes to your financial situation—and consider continuing whatever saving-up you’re already doing, if you can, to support your longer-term needs.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">That said, if you’re saving for something longer-term and are concerned about falling interest rates, now could be a good time to think about whether a fixed-rate savings option, like a No-Penalty CD, would be useful. The main benefit to a CD is that the interest rate stays the same for the CD’s entire term, so you can count on a reliable return even if interest rates are falling elsewhere. And a No-Penalty CD allows you to withdraw your money early with no fees in case you do need to tap into your savings a few months down the line.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h2 id=\"managing-your-debt\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Managing your debt</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">With rates going down, now might be a good time to get a better handle on your debt.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Corral credit cards.</strong> If you have credit-card balances, see if you qualify for a card with lower interest (or a no-interest introductory rate) and transfer your balances from higher-interest cards (though be aware there’s usually a fee for transfers)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Manage your mortgage.</strong> Have a mortgage? Refinancing at a lower rate can not only reduce your payments now, but help you spend less on interest in the long term. (There are some costs to refinancing, so do your research)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Ease student loan stress.</strong> If student loan payments are straining your budget right now (especially if your income is taking a hit at the moment), you could look into refinancing or deferring your payments for a time. The recent announcement of a possible student loan interest waiver may have an impact on how these options affect you, so call your loan servicing company to get details</span></li>\n</ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"stock-up-smarter\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Managing your budget</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Whenever there’s a big upheaval in the world, the ripple effects can show up in your day-to-day budget. Taking control of your spending can help you weather both the concrete challenges and the stress of the unknown.</span></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 id=\"stock-up-smarter\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Stock up smarter</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Lots of folks feel the need to stock up on supplies right now. Yet few of us have money in the budget to clear out Costco. Here are some small, reasonable ways to get what you need and stay on budget.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Groceries</strong>: To reduce waste and grocery bills, center your shopping list on affordable, shelf-stable foods that won’t spoil in case you’re stuck at home for a bit—like rice, pasta, and beans. Look for fresh foods that freeze well (like bread and shredded cheese) and long-lasting produce (like onions and carrots)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Medications</strong>: Consider picking up just the few things you’d need if you had a winter bug, like cold medicine and cough drops. If you take a prescription medication regularly, give your doctor a ring to ask if you need an extra supply—and be sure to call your insurance to make sure they’ll cover it</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"><strong>Shop your own home</strong>: You might be surprised at how much you already have in your house to keep you comfortable while saying in. That lonely can of pumpkin in the back of the cabinet? Make curried pumpkin soup! The stack of half-finished crafts or unread books in the corner? Cheaper fun than renting movies online! Do an inventory of what’s right under your nose before you run out to buy more</span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></li>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"trim-spending-stay-on-top-of-expenses\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Trim spending, stay on top of expenses</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">With the economy changing rapidly, keeping a budget and tracking expenses can help you maintain better control and give you peace of mind. If you haven’t examined your budget closely in a while, now’s a good time to look for any waste and opportunities to save money.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you’re not already budgeting, set up Expenses to get started—here’s how</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Holed up at home? See if you can streamline your streaming services so you have plenty of entertainment options without straining your budget</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Look for monthly bills you could reduce—like a better internet package or cell phone plan</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Unsubscribe from those oh-so-tempting sales emails (Unroll.me makes it super easy)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Ordering food delivery can be a convenience and a comfort—and it can also eat into your budget quick. Look for mouth-watering recipe blogs that help you commit to cooking at home more often; Budget Bytes is a great resource for budget-friendly ideas. (And if you do order in, consider getting food from a local restaurant that needs the support)</span><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></li>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"shift-money-as-needed\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Shift money as needed</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Depending on your situation, you might find yourself with some unexpected expenses—like a babysitter if schools are closed. In addition to tightening up optional spending (like entertainment), remember that this is exactly what emergency funds are for—so if you have one, don’t hesitate to use it.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">On the flip side, if you have a reprieve on certain expenses (like spending less on gas because you’re working from home), tuck that money into your emergency fund (or start one now!) so you’ve got a sense of security.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Going into debt should always be a last resort, so use your credit card wisely. If you absolutely need to charge a few things in a pinch, consider making a plan for paying off that debt when your finances allow.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n<h3 id=\"save-on-entertainment-and-stay-connected-to-friends\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Save on entertainment (and stay connected to friends)</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Find creative ways to have fun when your plans have to change. The money you save on going out can bolster your budget or emergency savings—and keeping in touch with the people you love makes weathering any storm less stressful.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Concert canceled? Create a virtual music party—ask everyone to contribute their favorite song to a shared Spotify playlist (and have a video chat dance-off if you’re anxious to bust a move)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Happy hours curtailed? FaceTime friends for a remote wine night (bonus: the drinks are cheaper!)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Curbing your travel plans? Plan a staycation full of fun activities you never have time for, like a movie marathon, a tour of your city’s parks, or a home spa day</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Movie theaters gone dark? Use the Netflix Party extension for Chrome for a virtual movie night with friends from afar</span></li>\n</ul>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h3>\n<h3 id=\"lend-a-hand-if-you-can\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Lend a hand if you can</span></h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Mr. Rogers said it best: “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’ ”</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you’re lucky enough to have extra money in your budget, using it to help those who are struggling is a great way to ease suffering for others—and reduce your own sense of helplessness at the same time.</span></p>\n<ul style=\"text-align: left;\">\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Food banks and services for the houseless are in especially dire need right now, so donating to such organizations can make a big impact. Find your local food bank here</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Some organizations (like the Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation, the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, and GoFundMe.org) have set up funds to help people disproportionately affected by the coronavirus, as have many cities and states. Search online for initiatives in your state if you’d like to contribute locally</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">If you use delivery or ride-sharing services, tip as generously as you can. Gig workers are being hit especially hard if you have a few extra bucks, share the love. (And opt for no-contact delivery when available to help both you and your delivery driver stay safer)</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Spend your money with companies that have publicly committed to ethical practices that help their employees and consumers</span></li>\n<li><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Buy from local small businesses whenever possible, especially those hit hardest, like restaurants, theaters, and small shops. One way to support your favorite spots when you’re not going out is to buy gift cards—they’ll benefit from the revenue now, and you’ll have some fun to look forward to in the future</span></li>\n</ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></h2>\n<h2 id=\"take-control-to-cultivate-calm\" style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Take control to cultivate calm</span></h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Focusing on your budget right now can help you feel more in control of your finances in the midst of uncertainty. If you’re feeling the all-too-common urge to shop online when life feels stressful, here are some ways to make curtailing extra spending easier.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\">Try to keep in mind that the current tumult, while distressing, is temporary; the world tends to weather disruptions and return to normal again at some point. We hope these tips will help you find your footing right now—and work toward being prepared for future ups and downs.</span></p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"color: #0a0a0a;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n<div class=\"single__feedback\"></div>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></p>\n</div>\n</div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\"></span></div>\n<div align=\"center\" style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">To read the full article, </span><a href=\"https://www.simple.com/blog/crisis-money-management\">click here</a><span style=\"color: #000000;\">.</span></span></div>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','Managing Your Money During Coronavirus','','inherit','closed','closed','','1293-revision-v1','','','2021-04-13 17:09:27','2021-04-13 17:09:27','',1293,'http://smartinsurance.tips/1293-revision-v1/',0,'revision','',0),