Because there are so many different types of personal finance software available today, and it can be difficult choosing the best one. The following is a run-down of some of the more popular types of budgeting software:

Quicken
One of the more popular budgeting software available, Intuit's Quicken comes in three different versions: standard, deluxe, and premium packages, with standard offering the most basic features and premium providing the most. This software will allow you to balance your checkbook, budget, and budget reports, as well as connect to your online financial information.

Quicken has a few features that make it unique, including the ability to pull up mini-windows within a register of transactions. This is handy because it lets you see instantly what you've spent at a particular store and is good for determining your spending trends. One thing that is unique to Quicken is its ability to securely store pictures of checks, receipts, and invoices. This is a handy feature and eliminates the need for your paper copies, making it easier to budget.

Microsoft Money
Microsoft Money has three different versions, just like Quicken, and has many of the same features as Quicken that can help you with your budgeting. In addition to a number of features that will come in handy with budgeting, Microsoft Money also provides browser-like navigation, which is quite convenient and user-friendly, and access to credit reports. Like Quicken, you can also access your accounts online.

You Need a Budget
This software provides a number of handy tools for budgeting, whether you're just learning how to budget or you're experienced. Features include:

• Register. This allows you to enter your income and expenses and has just one register instead of a register for each separate account.


• Budget Planning. This feature handles the various calculations needed to balance your budget, such as money spent and balance. You simply enter in the amount you want to spend for each category.


• Scheduler. Schedule your bill payments and enter recurring income and expenses, which will then show up automatically on your expenses.


• Budget reports. This software provides three different budget reports, including a Spending by Category Report, which provides a pie chart showing spending in all budget categories; a Total Spending Report, which is a bar chart that highlights spending trends; and a Current Balances Report that allows you to keep track of your spending

Online tools
There are many tools online that you can take advantage of to help you with your personal finances. Some of these include:

• Online statements. The ability to check your statement on your bank's website is a great way to keep track of your finances.


• Automatic bill pay. You can sign up for automatic bill pay, which will pay your bills automatically from your checking account each month.