If you've ever tried the cash envelope system for budgeting but wished it lived on your phone, Goodbudget is exactly what you're looking for. Built for individuals and couples who want to plan their spending — not just track it — Goodbudget digitizes the time-tested envelope method so you can allocate funds to categories like groceries, giving, and date nights before a single dollar is spent.^1
At its core, Goodbudget lets you create virtual envelopes, fill them with budgeted amounts each period, and deduct expenses in real time. Budgets sync across iPhones, Androids, and the web, making it ideal for couples and households who need to stay on the same financial page. Premium subscribers get automatic bank sync (including pending transactions as of March 2026), unlimited envelopes, debt tracking with projected payoff dates, transaction matching, running balances, and up to seven years of transaction history.^2 On iPhone, you can also secure your budget data with Face ID.^2
What makes Goodbudget stand apart is the heart behind it. The app is made by Dayspring Technologies, a San Francisco-based Social Purpose Corporation co-founded by Chi-Ming Chien.^9 Dayspring's leadership has spoken openly about running Goodbudget at a deficit for years because they believed budgeting is "reconciling work" that should be available to everyone regardless of ability to pay — a conviction rooted in their Christian faith.^3 The company intentionally maintains a generous free tier as more than a marketing tactic.
Why Users Love It"I paid off $10,000 in 10 months. Now that I'm totally debt free, I save for things that I WANT to spend money on." — James^4
"Goodbudget has been there for me through all my life and job changes as an adult! I started using Goodbudget when I graduated from college over 6 years ago... We have 40 envelopes. Goodbudget has helped us save for a car, take multiple vacations abroad, and budget for emergencies." — App Store Review^2
"I've been trying to live off my unsupported YNAB app for years. Finally it died and I did research on what switch to. Good Budget has surpassed YNAB in almost every aspect. It's cheaper and more efficient." — Google Play Review^5
Notable- Downloaded millions of times across iOS and Android, with an active web app^5
- Recommended or featured by Forbes, The New York Times, CNET, The Guardian, USA Today, and CNBC^8^5
- Dayspring's Chi-Ming Chien and his wife Juliette have been featured on Faith Driven Entrepreneur, discussing the company's move to San Francisco's Bayview neighborhood and its faith-driven business practices^6
- The app includes a budgeting podcast, online courses, and a philosophy called "The Goodbudget Way" centered on the belief that "there is enough" and "giving is good"^1
- Couples have told the Goodbudget team the app saved their marriage^1
