Alongside using Mint for daily transactions, Adaptu to track expenses, or other budgeting alternatives, there are new software applications available.
These companies are just starting out and have created really fun and interactive products.
Although I’m a huge Mint fan, I find it difficult to use their goals feature to pay off debt or keep track of my savings.
For me, I like to keep all those kinds of goals separate from daily transactions and investing accounts. Here are 3 new and fun programs that I’ve found to stay on track with my financial goals.
1. ReadyForZero
I recently started using this software in November 2011, and have found it simple to use but inspiring. The program is 100% focused on paying off any and all debt.
Whether it’s credit cards, student loans, mortgages or car loans, the software keeps track of it all. You start by linking your loan, checking and savings accounts.
Then you can see the progress of payments and use the charts to see the total interest saved over time. This program is completely secure and free!
They also offer these nifty sticker tabs for your credit cards that says “This card is ready for zero”. It’s a perfect reminder of why I’m not using my credit cards and the sacrifice is worth it in the end.
I’ve posted a few screenshots of my progress here.
The software intensely focuses on debt tracking and repaying any loans. Take the New Year’s Zero Debt Action Plan Challenge, and join me in changing our financial decisions in 2012!
2. ImpulseSave
This software is on the opposite end of impulse buying.
Anytime you decide NOT make a purchase you can send a text to the ImpulseSave site via mobile and impulse save instead.
For example, the other day I wanted to purchase a CD for $7, but instead I chose to transfer $7 into my ImpulseSave account.
It turns impulse buys into impulse saves!
You can create individual goals, whether they are short term or long term, and share the progress with friends on social media.
I’m kind of addicted to it, and can see where small savings and better decisions, can really add up over time.
Right now I have an exclusive invite for a few lucky readers.
Head over to my Facebook page to let me know you want to start saving!
3. SaveUp
The idea behind SaveUp is to offer prizes and rewards for savers and those learning to save money.
The program has a game-style feel, with the chance to win prizes and cash/debt repayments by scratching off tickets.
They offer weekly challenges that can be accepted for bonus credits and points. Each day there are a maximum of 3 plays to use towards winning prizes and each play uses a specific amount of credits.
Even if the ticket doesn’t win the grand prize, it might still award you with cash or points towards more chances to win.
[I'm not getting paid to write this and as with all the products I blog about, I use them personally and the opinions are my own.]
Photo Credit: sixninepixels
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I'm an ex-small business accountant who aims to help freelancers get out of debt and organize their life. And through the recently launched 
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