As we pursue wise stewardship with all that God has given us, a budget is essential. In addition to budgeting, it is important to keep track of the details with some basic bookkeeping.
I especially love the online budgeting and bookkeeping systems available now, that are affordable (and free!), and don’t require a special software to implement. Just sign-in, and get started!
Home Budgeting
For our home budget, we have enjoyed using the free system at Mint.com for the past few years. (It is especially helpful if you have someone who forgets to enter transactions into the bankbook, as it tracks your expenditures for you!)
Small Business Bookkeeping
For the “Work-At-Home Mom” (WAHM) or other entrepreneurs, the free bookkeeping system at Outright is incredibly useful.
It’s a great way to keep the income/expenses balanced! Plus, at the end of the tax year, all your information is neatly organized to give your tax preparer access, if needed.
Small Business Invoicing
For WAHMs or entrepreneurs who need an invoicing system, I have enjoyed using FreshBooks. (I use this system to send receipts and invoices for custom sewing orders.)
FreshBooks is great way to avoid those PayPal fees, as an alternative to PayPal invoices, if you think your client would prefer to pay via cash or check (although they can still have the option of paying online, if you prefer).
Getting Started
If you need help getting a start with your budgeting, I recommend the Biblical Financial Study Small Group Student Manual
What financial solutions have worked for YOU?
This post is part of Works for Me Wednesday.
Photo Credit: Alan Cleaver
I love that you say “we” when you speak of your finances. My husband and I work together to make the financial decisions for our family. I believe it is very important to work as a team.
Dave Ramsey is so helpful and down to earth with his approach to getting on the right track financially. Great recommendation!
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Thanks for the links. It’s a bummer Mint.com doesn’t support more local credit unions. I would love to be able to use it.
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Love this post. Love your blog!! I think I might start using Mint again. It’s been a while since I’ve signed in. Thank you!
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So true. I had a friend ask me about budgeting a few days ago. It’s hard for us ’cause we’ve always made such a bare minimum. We SHOULDN’T be able to make basic housing and electric bills. But some how the Lord has always made it work out.
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Michele @ Frugal Granola Reply:
July 21st, 2010 at 3:39 pm
@Creative2xmom, God is certainly good that way, isn’t He?
It’s all His to begin with, anyway.
Thanks!
Michele
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