[x187463]

I'm a huge fan of YNAB. It's a morning routine to log in (really, the tab is always up) and reconcile accounts. The zero-based budgeting method, while not requiring YNAB, is beautifully represented in the software. I'm sure I could use some free software to accomplish the basic tasks but having an associated app my spouse can review for quick decision making is very valuable.

It's made budgeting a tool to accomplish savings, wealth growth, and expense smoothing rather than simply a survival strategy. When you have to deliberately shift funds out of one category to cover another, you really consider the relative priorities.

[huhkerrf]

Another unexpected side effect is that it made me "excited" to spend money when I had saved up for it. Before it would be a back and forth, "should I buy this? I've wanted it, but I could use the money for something else..."

With YNAB, it's been "hell yeah, I saved up for this and now I get to buy it."