Setting up Microsoft Money is fairly straight-forward, but for those new to the program, there may be some unfamiliar options. These options are discussed in this tutorial.
Quicken users: Make a backup copy of Quicken data by following these directions.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 5 - 10 minutes
Here's How:
- Install Microsoft Money from your program CD or purchase it online and download it and run the appropriate file.
- Open Microsoft Money. If you do not have Quicken data files, skip to step 3. If you have Quicken data files, Microsoft Money will automatically detect them and require that you the convert the files. As mentioned above, it is safe to do so; Microsoft Money will leave your Quicken data intact. Simply allow Microsoft Money to make the conversion.
- Microsoft Money will ask you to choose how you how wish to sign in to the program. Choose to sign into Windows Live ID to receive web-based services like stock quotes and transaction downloads in Microsoft Money. If you choose not to use Live ID now, you can add this feature later. Click on ‘Next’ once you’ve made your choice.
- If you’ve elected to log in with Live ID, the next screen will ask you to enter an established log in and password or to create a new one. If you choose to create a new one, follow the instructions on the screen then return to this page to continue setting up Money.
- Microsoft Money will ask you to add a password to your file. This password is for the data file on your computer and is separate from the Live ID account. You can click on choices to not to use a password or n enter a password, then re-enter it under Confirm Password. Click on Next.
- If you are using the free Microsoft Money trial, a window will pop up to explain that you have 60 days to try the software. After that time, you will not be able to open Microsoft Money unless you purchase the software.
- Click on Finish to complete your Microsoft Money set up. You can now go exploring in Microsoft Money to get familiar with the program. Quicken users may go into Quicken to be sure that their data is secure, then delete the five Quicken files saved to the Windows desktop.
Tips:
- Live ID is not spyware but it will upload some of your data. Although Microsoft Money servers have the tightest security, consider whether you want your personal financial data saved anywhere but on your PC or on removable media like a CD.
- Microsoft Money will not change your Quicken data or the way Quicken works. Back up Quicken files before installing Microsoft Money as an extra precaution.
What You Need:
- Microsoft Money Software Download or Software CD, or
- Microsoft Money Free Trial (link in Step 6)
