Managing your finances can be a chore, and an intimidating one at that. But there is really no reason you should think you need to save every receipt and log every purchase. There are numerous tools at your disposal that can handle the hard work for you! Here are a few tips:
1. Learn to love spreadsheets! Sure, spreadsheets can be intimidating, but they are also one of the most versatile tools that almost everyone doesn't use. Programs like the massively popular Microsoft Excel are available to almost everyone, and they are almost never used. Get on the Google and search for an easy Excel template for personal finance, or design your own! It can be as easy as plugging in your information and you will quickly know exactly where all your money is going.
2. Quicken. Quicken is a program from the makers of the bookkeeping software Quickbooks, which is hugely popular in the business community. Although dated, Quicken is a very easy and versatile program that you can connect to your accounts to keep track of your data. It will cost you some money, but they also have an online option to use from the cloud as well. Definitely worth investigating.
3. Use an online service! I just mentioned Quicken, but there are many online services to keep track of your finances. Lately one of the more popular sites as been mint.com. I tried it for a while, but ultimately ended up making my own spreadsheets.
Explore and pick what works for you!
