YNAB vs MyBudgetCoach

Which budgeting app is right for you?

What we like about YNAB...

YNAB (You Need a Budget) is a great zero based budget app. Users are encouraged to follow the "Four Rules" to get control of their finances. We especially like Rule #1: "Give Every Dollar a Job." YNAB helps users make a plan for their money BEFORE they spend it. They have a web experience as well as iOS and Android apps. In a world full of budgeting apps YNAB stands out for its fanbase, smart handling of credit cards, and methodology.

Where MyBudgetCoach can be a better choice...

Not every user finds YNAB easy to pick up. There tends to be a steep learning curve when using a new budgeting app. Zero based budgeting in particular can take a while to adjust to. YNAB offers a directory of coaches to help with this. But these coaches aren't a part of your holistic experience from start to success. MyBudgetCoach is similar to YNAB in many ways. The key difference is the emphasis on CONNECTION to a real life coach from Day 1. This is achieved through avatar conversations, secure messages, and videos calls.

How do they stack up?

YNAB

MyBudgetCoach

Zero Based Budgeting

Bank Sync*

Web Access

Mobile Access**

Multi-Month Budget View

Rollover Negative Balances

Built In Coaching Features

Yearly Price

$110***

$99

*Bank sync on MyBudgetCoach uses SimpleFIN which costs $15/year.
**Mobile access on MyBudgetCoach is via a mobile website that can be saved to your home screen.
***YNAB's yearly price will be increasing from $99 to $110 in August 2024.

Which app should you use?

Both YNAB and MyBudgetCoach offer excellent budgeting experiences. If you are pretty tech savvy and confident in your ability to learn a new skill on your own YNAB would be a great choice. If you are looking for more guidance and encouragement as you tackle your finances MyBudgetCoach is for you.