Actual Budget (Free version)

Actual Budget is an open-source tool built around the envelope method of budgeting. Unlike many apps that keep everything in the cloud, it runs locally first, which means data stays on the user’s own machine unless they decide to sync it through Dropbox or another service. That approach has made it popular among people who want control and privacy but still like the structure of modern budgeting software.

Everyday use

Daily use feels straightforward. Money comes in, and every dollar is placed into an “envelope” — groceries, rent, savings, or any other category. When expenses are logged, the envelopes shrink accordingly, making it clear how much is left. Reports aren’t flashy but provide enough to see trends across weeks or months. Some users keep it fully offline, while others turn on sync to move seamlessly between laptop and phone. Either way, the workflow stays simple and predictable.

Specs & notes

Getting started

Installing Actual Budget is easy: download the app for Windows, macOS, or Linux, and it’s ready to go. The first task is setting up accounts and creating envelopes. From there, assigning income to each envelope becomes a routine, and the app adjusts balances as soon as expenses are recorded.

Who uses it

It’s often picked by households that want structure, students who are learning budgeting discipline, and privacy-focused users who don’t like cloud dependency. It also appeals to people who enjoy the old-fashioned envelope system but prefer to manage it digitally.

Why it sticks

Actual Budget has built a following because it does two things well: it respects user control and it keeps budgeting practical. For many, that balance — private, open source, and still easy to use — is reason enough to stick with it over more commercial alternatives.