YNAB review
Zero-based budgeting that gives every dollar a job
- You Need A Budget LLC
- Subscription
- iPhone & iPad, Android, Web
Does it deserve #2?
The verdict
YNAB is a budgeting method as much as an app. You give every dollar a job before you spend it, and the app makes overspending obvious right away. Free workshops and guides help the habit stick. The learning curve is real and there is no free plan, but if you want to break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle, no app teaches it better.
- Zero-based budgeting method
- Targets for upcoming expenses
- Shared subscription for family
- Free live workshops
Score breakdown
Overall = features 30% · design 20% · speed 20% · value 15% · privacy 15%. Why these weights?
What we like
- Changes how you think about spending, not just tracks it
- Subscription model with no ads in the app
- Excellent education through free workshops and guides
What could be better
- Steep learning curve for the first month
- No free tier, and investment tracking is basic
People who want to break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle with a hands-on method
you just want automatic spending charts without daily involvement
Questions about YNAB
Is YNAB free?
YNAB has a free trial, then requires a monthly or annual subscription. College students can get a free year by verifying their enrollment.
Does YNAB connect to my bank?
Yes. In supported regions YNAB can import transactions from linked accounts, or you can enter them manually if you prefer full control.
What are the best alternatives to YNAB?
The closest alternatives are Monarch Money, Copilot Money and Rocket Money. See all of them ranked on our YNAB alternatives page.
Where does YNAB rank?
YNAB ranks #2 of 10 in our Money & Investing ranking, with an overall score of 8.9 out of 10.