The Best Finance App for ADHDers
Full disclosure, the article title is total clickbait, but what can I say, I got you here so please give me 5 minutes to plead my case! So let’s cut to the chase with the truth: there isn’t one perfect finance app for people in general, but that is especially true for folks with ADHD. Why? Because we’re all VERY different. What works for one person might feel like having your hands covered in wet coffee grounds (ick-or is it just me?) to someone else. And what’s important to you might not even be on the radar of others. But don’t worry I didn’t get you here through the false pretences of the title for no good reason, because I’ve got some recommendations that might just hit the sweet spot for you.
Why No Single App is Perfect
ADHD brains crave simplicity when they are looking for a tool to help them with something they aren’t excited to work on, but what feels simple varies wildly from person to person. Some of us love colour-coded charts and spreadsheets (hi, it’s me 🙋🏼♀️) while others need to be able to see at a glance where they stand. And then there are others still that need hard and fast barriers to prevent them from spending more than they plan to. The key is finding something that clicks for you. And no, you’re not failing if the first app you try isn’t “The One.”
My Top Recommendation: Google Sheets
Yep, it’s not a fancy finance app (although technically it does have an app 😉), but Google Sheets gets my vote. Why? Because it’s flexible, customizable, and—best of all—free.
While it is generally easier to use Google Sheets on a computer, the app allows you to access your budget and, ideally, your cash flow tracker on your phone at any time. Plus, it’s ADHD-friendly because you can design it to fit your brain and customize it to the systems that you set up for your money. Whether you want to track every penny (which I do not recommend unless it’s a hyperfocus) or focus on the big picture, Google Sheets lets you do it your way. Bonus: It syncs across devices, so you’re never stuck without your numbers.
If you’re inspired to build a plan for your money (aka a budget) right now, you can go sign up to get access to a free budget template that will do all the math for you! It’s simple, easy to use, and customizable to fit your unique financial priorities.
As a financial coach who supports folks with ADHD, I have tried dozens of apps and not found one ‘traditional’ budgeting app that does what I want it to do. I think it’s important to have a tool that gives you clarity at a glance without taking up a lot of time. With so many budget apps out there, they don’t work unless every transaction is categorized correctly, which can be time-consuming.
A Close Second: YNAB (You Need A Budget)
If you’re ready to invest time and effort, YNAB is fantastic. It forces you to be intentional with your money by assigning every dollar a job and integrates planning for larger expenses into your monthly plans. YNAB can be great if you thrive on structure and commit to being consistent with it. But let’s be real—YNAB comes with a steep learning curve. And for it to work, you’ll need to consistently dedicate time to updating it. Two things that don’t bode well for it being the missing piece of the puzzle for an ADHDer!
If you’re an ADHDer who struggles with follow-through, YNAB might feel overwhelming. But if you’re up for the challenge, it can be a game-changer. Just remember: progress over perfection.
Need More Help Simplifying Your Budget?
If even Google Sheets or YNAB feel like too much, you’re not alone. Managing finances doesn’t have to mean tracking every single transaction. Check out Episode 5 of the Mind + Money Podcast for strategies to make budgeting ADHD-friendly. Hint: It involves using different accounts for different types of spending so you don’t have to obsess over receipts.
You’ll also want to read my blog on cash flow: Your Budget Bestie: Cash Flow. It’s all about creating a system that works for you to see your upcoming income and expenses to help you see the impact of what you do today on your financial future.
At the end of the day, the best finance app is the one you’ll actually use. Start with something simple, like Google Sheets, and tweak it until it feels right. Remember, ADHD-friendly finances are all about customization and self-compassion. And if you feel overwhelmed with where to start, know that you don’t have to do it alone. The accountability and clarity that come from one-on-one coaching can help you find what will work best for you with the support of a financial professional who has ADHD and understands our common challenges! The first step? A free consultation! I can’t wait to chat with you!
