PearBudget spreadsheet is a free template used to set up and manage your budget and month-to-month spending. You can use PearBudget spreadsheet on Mac, Windows and Linux systems.
PearBudget spreadsheet is especially useful for tracking spending very closely since it requires manual entry of expenses by day. If you would be overwhelmed by this, then choose another means of tracking your finances. If you like this kind of detail, you'll love Pearbudget spreadsheet.
The PearBudget web-based budgeting tool is also available with a free trial and $3 per month thereafter.
- PearBudget spreadsheet is free.
- Compatible with multiple operating systems.
- Great for those who want to get very detailed with budgeting.
- Specific directions are included.
- Requires a lot of manual entry.
- May be frustrating to those who like more automation.
- Twenty minutes to set up worksheets, 10-20 minutes to do data entry each week, depending on your spending patterns.
- PearBudget tracks fixed, irregular and variable expenses separately, which is optimal for budget analysis.
- Enter transactions manually, which keeps you on top of your spending.
PearBudget spreadsheet does not use accounts like traditional personal finance software does because it is dedicated to creating and tracking your budget, not accounts. Here's what you get:
- The Start Here tab walks you through setting up expense categories and setting up budgeted amounts with comprehensive yet simple instructions.
- Tabs at the bottom of the PearBudget worksheet designate each month where you enter daily expenses and review the amount budgeted against amount spent for the month.
- The Analysis tab analyzes expenses by month and category, and reveals the difference between actual spending and budgeted spending for variable expenses.
Since PearBudget is a spreadsheet it lacks the features of traditional financial software such as Quicken, and Microsoft Money, Moneydance, or online financial software. However, if you simply need to set up a budget, you know spreadsheet basics and you have no need to reconcile accounts with software, PearBudget will manage your budget well.
