Expense Tracking & guide to savings money. Any idea's?

Discussion in 'Money Management & Banking' started by Midsomer, 19th Nov, 2011.

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  1. Midsomer

    Midsomer New Member

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    Hey,

    I've been using a program YNAB (You Need A Budget) for alsmot 12 months now, not for a budget per se, but more so an expense tracker, and I think it's going great. Obviously understanding where your money goes is the first step in knowing your habits a little better.

    Recently, I've been putting together a spreadsheet for groceries, a 'price-book' it is titled I believe. To break down my '$200' shopping bill even more. Sounds like a lot of overkill to some, especially my wife lol.. But i believe it has merit, just wondering if anyone has any pre-filled out spreadsheets of the such, or programs they use for this? I've attached a picture, does anyone do something similar? I was thinking I should learn how to use microsoft access, so I can 'filter' the item I am looking for, the best price i've paid, when, where etc.. :)
     

    Attached Files:

  2. Chris C

    Chris C Well-Known Member

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    I think mint.com will be a great service once they launch in Australia.
     
  3. Midsomer

    Midsomer New Member

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    Yes, Mint.com looks like a great service. I've noticed a number of similar programs becoming available, where you can track your expenses, like ANZ money manager, inDinero, etc.. I'll continue to work on my pricebook and fine tune it, I think there is some potential with something helpful like this.
     
  4. Andrew Allen

    Andrew Allen Well-Known Member Business Member

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    Hi Midsomer,

    I like Excel and use it if for this purpose as well. I think you need to be careful putting too much energy into budgeting and cost cutting, much more marginal value generated from earning more I think.

    So have a simple and effective budgeting system (could be as simple as paying yourself first) and combine with increasing skills and income, growing a business etc. I've never calculated the per egg cost of my grocery bill before!

    Regards,
    Andrew
     
  5. MIB

    MIB New Member

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    Hi guys,

    I use Xero Personal and love it.

    Online Accounting Software. Free Trial, Free Support | Xero

    I first started using it for a business I own and then tried their personal option. Simply export your transactions from all your bank accounts online and import them into Xero. It automatically categories and tracks all your expenses and lets you set goals etc.

    There's a free trial and after that I think it's about $50 a year.

    Hope that helps,

    Mike
     
  6. Pete Ramoza

    Pete Ramoza Active Member

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    Great ideas - will look into these options!
     
  7. fathappycows

    fathappycows Member

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    Five steps

    Hi Midsomer,

    I use excel to track all of my expenses. It is certainly an eye-opener to see exactly where the money goes. It takes a lot of time though. Micro-managing your groceries must be a killer. It will probably be worth it though, if you think you are spending too much and want to see where to cut down.

    You're right though. It's only the first step. And without the next step, most people will fill the gap they have created by cutting down expenses with other random purchases. Do you have a plan in place for your savings and investments?
     
  8. jodie123

    jodie123 Active Member

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    Hi Midsomer,

    I reckon the best way to keep your grocery bill down is to meal plan for the week/2 weeks, that can save you heaps just there without having to expend energy in the nitty gritty.

    Also I think some of the online programs are great, well contributed everyone!

    Good luck!
     
  9. Pete Ramoza

    Pete Ramoza Active Member

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    Midsomer, just wondering if you made a decision?
     
  10. angeinvestor

    angeinvestor Member

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    Check out Pocketbook https://getpocketbook.com - a new service. My mates are raving about how easy it is compared to the likes of ANZ Moneymanager and Xero Personal. From what I've seen of Mint. it appears to be similar.
     
  11. nev

    nev Member

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    Maybe this might be a help
    Seem to be OK
     
  12. Terry_w

    Terry_w Lawyer, Tax Adviser and Mortgage broker in Sydney Business Member

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    This looks like it is good and is an Australia based setup. Worth a look into I think.