Manual vs Digital Budgeting: Which Method Best Suits Your Goals?

Web Editor

September 25, 2025

a man sitting at a desk writing on a notepad and a laptop computer with a pen in his hand, Enguerran

Creating an effective personal budget is crucial for saving, optimizing expenses, and achieving financial goals. However, cultivating this habit can be challenging, especially if manually recording income and expenses seems tedious.

Currently, there are traditional methods like handwriting and technological platforms designed to simplify the process and enhance financial control.

Only 53% of Mexicans keep a record of their income and expenses, according to the National Financial Health Survey by INEGI.

Budgeting Apps

  • Monefy: Allows recording income and expenses, defining categories. The premium version (1,299 pesos/year) unlocks recurring records and synchronization across devices.
  • WalletApp: Offers basic financial control for free; annual subscription (399 pesos) or monthly (99 pesos) for bank synchronization and automatic tracking of expenses and investments.

It’s recommended to try the free versions before paying for advanced features, identifying which type of assistance is most beneficial for each user.

Digital Templates and Resources

Another option is to download spreadsheet templates or request them from AI. There are also profiles and experts on social media offering templates, sometimes for a fee.

When choosing a third-party template, it’s important to verify the credibility and usefulness of the content.

Finally, the National Commission for the Protection and Defense of Users of Financial Services (Condusef) provides a personal budget planner on its website, allowing users to record, categorize, and estimate savings.

Remember: Choosing the right tool is key, but consistency and dedication are the foundation of healthy personal finances.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is the importance of creating a personal budget? An effective personal budget helps you save, optimize expenses, and achieve financial goals.
  • What are some budgeting methods available? Traditional handwriting and digital platforms like Monefy or WalletApp are popular options.
  • How can I decide which budgeting method suits me best? Try free versions of apps or templates, identifying the features that align with your needs.
  • Are there reliable digital resources for budgeting? Verify the credibility of third-party templates and consider using Condusef’s budget planner on their website.