When it comes to budgeting, only one hack' really works

“Talia, what’s the best budgeting app?” It’s a question I’m often asked, especially this summer as people try to make their money stretch to cover the holiday period.

- TALIA LODERICK

My answer is often unexpected: “There isn’t one.”

In a fast-paced world where we’re time-poor and seeking quick wins, money tips, tricks and hacks seemingly meet a need. But for budgeting to work – and I mean really work – it takes time and effort.

I know, I know. You want to hear that if you find the right app it’ll take you just five or 10 minutes to plug in your numbers and get a result. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. The thing about budgeting is, it’s simple (money in less money out for set period of time) – but “simple” doesn’t necessarily mean easy to implement.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m a fan of some so-called “hacks”. The TikTok trend of “loud budgeting” is a fun one. It’s all about being honest with friends when you say no to anything you can’t – or choose not to – afford. In a world full of options, temptations and other people’s expectations on how you should spend your cash, it can be a great way to advocate for yourself and your money.