Quicken Simplifi stands out as the top Mint alternative for most users seeking a seamless transition. This app delivers a clean, intuitive interface that mirrors Mint’s ease of use while adding modern features like precise income and bill detection. At just $4 per month or $48 annually, it offers exceptional value compared to pricier competitors.
The dashboard provides a scrollable overview of balances, net worth, recent spending, upcoming payments, and spending plans. Users appreciate the ability to set savings goals and share access with spouses or advisors. A unique refund tracker helps monitor expected returns on purchases.
While it lacks a free trial and Zillow integration, the 30-day money-back guarantee reduces risk. Setup connects effortlessly to major banks like Fidelity, and categorization improves over time with user input.
Monarch Money: Feature-Rich Runner-Up
Monarch Money earns its spot as the runner-up with deep customization and detailed reporting tools. Priced at $15 monthly or $100 yearly, it suits power users who value granularity in budgets and forecasts. Founded by a former Mint product manager, it imports Mint data via Chrome extension.
Key strengths include Zillow and car value syncing for accurate net worth tracking, plus on-demand graphs for accounts and categories. The month-in-review report covers cash flow trends, asset changes, and spending breakdowns. Recent updates added Apple Card support and investment transaction tracking.
The web app outperforms the mobile version for rule creation and editing. It uses multiple bank networks like Plaid, MX, and Finicity for reliable connections, though income detection may require manual tweaks initially.
Copilot Money: Sleek Design for iOS Users
Copilot Money impresses with its polished interface and AI-driven intelligence for expense categorization. At $13 monthly or $95 annually, it targets Apple ecosystem users with iOS and Mac apps, promising Android and web versions soon. Optional integrations include Amazon, Venmo, and Zillow.
The “To Review” section flags new transactions for quick approval, promoting mindful spending. Visualizations excel at showing recurring expenses and investment performance. A demo mode lets users test without linking accounts, and RIPMINT offers two free months.
Common features like detailed cash flow remain in development, but upcoming AI tools promise natural language search and benchmarking against other users.
NerdWallet: Premier Free Option
NerdWallet provides the best free budgeting experience despite prominent ads. It tracks spending, investments, net worth, and credit scores across iOS, Android, and web platforms. Weekly insights compare spending patterns and fees to prior months.
Following the 50/30/20 rule, it allocates budgets into needs, wants, and savings/debt. Custom categories and transaction moves are planned for future updates. Setup requires more personal info for credit monitoring, leading to frequent 2FA prompts.
Income detection lags behind paid apps, occasionally mistaking one-time transfers for regular pay. Still, its financial guides and simplicity make it ideal for casual users avoiding subscriptions.
YNAB: Hands-On Budgeting Philosophy
YNAB promotes a zero-based budgeting system where every dollar gets assigned to categories like digital envelopes. At $15 monthly or $110 yearly, it demands active engagement without forecasting future income. Tutorials guide the steep learning curve.
This approach fosters intentionality, perfect for correcting overspending habits or building emergency funds. Mobile features work best alongside the web app. It suits disciplined users prioritizing education over automation.
Migrating from Mint: Essential Steps
Switching apps requires exporting Mint data as CSV files for import.
Exporting Mint Transactions
– Sign into Mint.com and select Transactions from the left menu.
– Choose specific accounts or all accounts.
– Scroll to find “export [number] transactions” link.
– Download the CSV file directly.
Per-account exports aid precise mapping in new apps. Most alternatives support CSV uploads alongside Plaid connections.
Understanding Plaid Connections
Plaid powers bank linking across all top apps, connecting to over 12,000 institutions. Search for your bank, enter credentials, and complete 2FA. It securely passes balances and transactions without storing full data long-term.
Testing Insights and Other Options
Apps were evaluated on multi-account setup, automation accuracy, budgeting flexibility, and cross-platform support. PocketGuard shifted to paid-only plans, reducing appeal. Rocket Money offers free basics with premium subscription cancellation tools.
Quicken Simplifi wins for Mint-like simplicity at a budget price. Choose based on free needs, customization depth, or platform preferences to regain control over finances post-Mint shutdown.
