The complete edition of the Microsoft Money personal finance program was retired in 2009 and was replaced by Money Plus Sunset Deluxe, a free download. While this alternative program is adequate for basic money management activities, it lacks technical assistance and capabilities that require internet access. Here are some alternatives to Money Plus Sunset Deluxe if you want to replace Microsoft Money with something that offers more functionality and flexibility.
Desktop software is the first option.
If you want to handle your finances through desktop software, you'll have various options. Most of them provide a free trial, so you have nothing to lose by trying them out to see what works best for you. Here are some options:- Moneydance: A version of this software is available for Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems. For iOS and Android devices, there is also an app version.
- Quicken: This product gives users of personal finance software additional control and flexibility. Two enhancements are a significantly enhanced budget feature and easier loan tracking. It's available for Windows and Mac and a mobile app for iOS and Android.
- AceMoney: Claiming to be the finest Quicken replacement, AceMoney is a formidable contender, albeit it lacks online bill payment and transaction downloads.
- Moneyspire: Moneyspire allows many users to exchange personal finance data on a single computer or across a network. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows versions of the software.
- GnuCash: GnuCash is free, thanks to the open-source software movement. This accounting program can be used to keep track of personal money as well as small business accounts. GnuCash keeps track of many different types of accounts, assets, income, and expenses. 7
Option 2: Financial Software Available Online
You could switch to an online program if you're already switching to personal financial software. You never have to install anything on your hard drive or wait for updates with online applications. Data encryption and other measures are used to keep data safe in online financial software, just as in your bank's online banking website. Here are some online software options:- You Need a Budget (YNAB) is an online personal finance software program with robust budgeting capabilities. YNAB is available for Windows and Mac PCs, iPad, iPhone, Android, and Kindle Fire apps and an Apple Watch app. You can view accounts, check your budget, and enter transactions when you're not at your computer.
- Personal Capital: In addition to displaying all of your accounts in one dashboard, Personal Capital focuses on assisting you with investment planning and determining whether you're on schedule for retirement.
Microsoft Money Plus Sunset Deluxe is the third option.
Microsoft Money Plus Sunset Deluxe is still a viable alternative if you can live without automated transaction downloads and a few other features that require internet connectivity. Sunset Deluxe is free, albeit it lacks some of the features you enjoy for money. There is no Mac version. Therefore Mac users will have to look for another option.Is Quicken a Good Microsoft Money Alternative?
Many people turn to Quicken first when it comes to replacing Microsoft Money. It's a powerful personal finance program that works well. On the other hand, Quicken ranges in price from $35 to $90, depending on the edition. Consider whether you can effectively import your previous Money data before making the transition. Quicken explicitly advises against doing so. Quicken does not provide a free trial either (though the mobile apps have free versions to try). However, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you decide it's not for you, you may seek a return within that time frame.How to Get Started with the New Personal Finance Software
There will be a modest learning curve when using any new personal finance program that replaces Microsoft Money. Former Microsoft Money users will find some features of the new personal financial software intuitive, but be patient as you learn how to navigate the software. Remember to utilize the new software's Help menu to learn how to use features different from those in Microsoft Money.Most Commonly Asked Questions
What is the most effective free budgeting software?
There are numerous free budget software solutions available, each with its capabilities, so the best one for you will rely on your specific needs and preferences. Mint is a budgeting and goal-setting tool you can use on the web or by downloading the Mint app. GnuCash is a more complicated program that employs double-entry accounting. Personal Capital has tools for budgeting, spending, and retirement planning.What is Intuit Mint, exactly?
Intuit, the firm behind TurboTax and QuickBooks, has released Mint, a free budgeting program. Mint may be used to budget and track your cash flow by connecting all of your bank accounts. It also allows you to view your credit score.