You don’t have to budget with a spreadsheet, but if you want one, they’re out there. Find a method that fits your brain, not one that overwhelms you.

Here are a few tried-and-true tools:

✅ Google Sheets (Free & Customizable) Easy to use

Can auto-calculate your totals

[Example Budgeting Spreadsheet](file:///C:/Users/aaron/AppData/Local/Temp/8a55a411-9591-4f5f-ac69-aecf48d1b647_Budget_Template.zip.647/Sheet1.html)

✅ Apps Mint (free, great for tracking expenses)

YNAB (You Need A Budget — good for proactive planning)

EveryDollar (good for beginners, made by Dave Ramsey team)

✅ Pen & Paper Yep, writing it out works, especially when you're just getting started

Budgeting journals are a thing (and they're effective)

✅ Notion Templates You can build your budget directly into your Notion dashboard

Add monthly check-ins, goals, and transaction logs all in one space

Tip: Whatever method you choose, the most important step is to review your budget regularly. Set a “Money Sunday” once a week to check in with your spending and adjust as needed.