Actual Budget is an open-source, local-first budgeting app built around the envelope method. Originally created by a former YNAB user, it has developed a loyal following among privacy-conscious users willing to run their own sync server.
Why it’s worth considering an Actual Budget alternative
Actual Budget is free and open-source, but it’s complex. To unlock the full experience, including multi-device syncing and API access, you need to run your own sync server via Docker or a third-party host like PikaPods or Fly.io.
Furthermore, bank connections for U.S. and Canadian users must go through SimpleFIN for an additional $1.50/month, billed separately. If you’re looking for a budgeting platform that works out of the box, with built-in syncing, account connections, and support, Lunch Money may be a better fit.
Meet Lunch Money
A budgeting app that works the moment you sign up. No Docker containers, no sync servers, no third-party bank connectors. Just a clean and intuitive interface, native multi-currency support, and the features modern budgeters actually want.
Actual Budget
⚡ Ready to use out of the box
Sign up, link your accounts, and start budgeting in minutes. No server setup, no Docker, and no ongoing maintenance on your end.
Multi-device sync, bank syncing, and the API all require you to run your own sync server or pay a third-party host.
⚡ Built-in bank syncing
Connect your bank accounts directly through Lunch Money, without any extra subscriptions or third-party connectors required.
US and Canadian bank sync requires SimpleFIN at $1.50/month, paid separately. EU/UK users can use GoCardless via open banking.
⚡ Budget the way you want
Lunch Money has the built-in flexibility to support your personal budgeting philosophy: envelope, zero-based, rolling, or a simple monthly cap.
Actual Budget only supports envelope-style budgeting. Other approaches aren't supported natively.
⚡ Native multicurrency
Spend in multiple currencies? Lunch Money's multicurrency engine comes built in and works across your accounts, budgets, transactions, and reports.
Multicurrency support is limited. Managing finances across currencies is not a core strength.
⚡ Cloud-based developer API
Build your own automations, dashboards, and integrations with our developer API, accessible from anywhere, no local infrastructure required.
Actual's API runs against your local data and requires a self-hosted sync server to use it across devices.
⚡ Mobile access wherever you are
You can use Lunch Money’s companion apps on iOS and Android devices, not just a browser-based PWA.
Mobile access is via a Progressive Web App or desktop application only. No dedicated iOS or Android apps.
⚡ Crypto portfolio tracking
Connect your crypto wallet to Lunch Money and track balances in real-time in your primary currency of choice.
Actual Budget doesn't support tracking crypto tokens.
⚡ Attach receipts and supporting documents
Keep receipts, invoices, warranties, and other supporting files attached directly to your transactions.
Actual Budget doesn't support file attachments on transactions.
⚡ Responsive support from the community
Lunch Money users benefit from direct access to the founder, an active community in our Discord, and a team that listens to customer feedback.
Community-driven support via GitHub and forums. No dedicated customer support team.
⚡ Collaboration built in
Share a budget with your partner or family using built-in collaboration, all under one subscription.
Sharing a budget requires exporting files or sharing access to your self-hosted server.
Why users love Lunch Money
Lunch Money combines the flexibility budgeters want with the simplicity that they need.
Instead of worrying about hosting, syncing, integrations, and maintenance, you can focus on understanding your spending, reaching your goals, and building a healthier relationship with your money.
It's simple, and it just works. Way easier to use than Mint or YNAB. Get up & going in a few minutes!
Multicurrency is seamless! I have business and personal accounts on both sides of the border, and Lunch Money handled them without a sweat!
I've been looking for a very very long time for a budgeting solution that just works. I am so happy I found Lunch Money, it has been exactly what I was looking for.
