17 Essential Money Apps

I know we all likely spend too much time on our phones as it is, but these apps are worth exploring.

- Andy Webb

From budgeting tools to sourcing free food, they'll all help you manage, make or save money. Obviously there are many more you could benefit from, so make sure you also download the apps for any service or business you regularly use to see if they have extra features

The app for... digital banking

If you don't mind forgoing access to a bricks and mortar bank branch, then you should try the latest generation of banks that are app-only. These make all the day-to-day basics very simple, and have a number of innovations that the high street banks are desperately trying to mimic. My pick of these is Starling Bank, though Monzo is worth a look too.

Tracking your finances

If you have multiple current accounts and credit cards then you can see all your balances in one place via MoneyDashboard. This can also help you keep track of spending, as well as set budgets and view upcoming regular payments.

Keeping on top of your savings

Chip is a smart app that analyses your income and outgoings (via your bank account) to see if you can afford to put extra into savings. If you can, it'll automatically move some cash over to a separate pot, which offers a competitive interest rate on top. You'll want to opt for the free ChipLite tier to avoid a monthly charge.

All-in-one banking

Curve is different to the digital banks and money management apps through you do require the app to get access. Once you've signed up you'll be sent a Curve debit card which you can then connect to all your other Visa and Mastercard cards. When you pay with Curve you can then choose which linked card is charged, and you can do this up to 30 days after the transaction. Again, the free option is best for most.

Managing your loyalty cards