The Bottom Line
PearBudget is an effective budget spreadsheet, and is especially useful for tracking spending very closely since it requires manual entry of expenses by day (you do not need to enter expenses daily, though). PearBudget may be overwhelming for some to use so I can not give it more than 3.5 stars, but it is free to try.
The PearBudget web-based budgeting tool is also available with a free trial and $3 per month after the trial.
Pros
- PearBudget spreadsheet is free.
- Compatible with multiple operating systems.
- Great for those who want to get very detailed with budgeting.
- Specific directions are included.
Cons
- Requires a lot of manual entry.
- May be frustrating to those who like more automation.
Description
- 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.
Guide Review - PearBudget Free Budgeting Spreadsheet
PearBudget is a very comprehensive household budget spreadsheet that you download to use with Microsoft Excel, Open Office Calc, or any program that can run .XLS files (scroll down to the bottom of this Excel Wiki for a list of these programs). If you do not have Microsoft Excel, you can check prices for Microsoft Excel or download the free and very capable Open Office Calc spreadsheet, which opens Excel files.PearBudget does not use accounts like traditional personal finance software does because it is dedicated to creating and tracking your budget. This is what you see when you open PearBudget:
- 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, or alternatives like ClearCheckbook and Moneydance. 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 while teaching you how to manage your finances better.
