Budgeting can often feel like a daunting challenge, especially when modern financial tools like credit cards and instant payment apps make spending easier than ever. While AI tools and smart assistants can help you cut costs in small ways, dedicated budgeting apps go a step further — offering structure, visibility, and accountability. For over a decade, Mint was the go-to choice for millions of users who wanted a simple yet powerful way to manage their money. Its friendly interface, automatic tracking, and free cost made it the benchmark for budgeting technology.
However, in March 2024, Mint’s parent company, Intuit, officially shut down the standalone Mint app and directed users to transition to Credit Karma. This move surprised loyal users who relied on Mint for its seamless money management and deep insights. With Mint gone, the natural question became: what’s next? Thankfully, there’s an impressive range of alternatives available — from simplified tools to advanced budgeting ecosystems that use automation and AI to personalize your financial experience.
Quicken Simplifi
Quicken Simplifi is designed for individuals who want a clean, intuitive experience without the heavy lifting. While Quicken’s legacy products have long served business owners and accountants, Simplifi takes that trusted brand and builds a lighter, more approachable tool for everyday budgeting. Users can access Simplifi through a web interface or mobile app, giving flexibility to manage their finances on the go or from a laptop.
Simplifi’s standout feature is its automatic “Spend Plan.” Instead of requiring users to build their budgets manually, Simplifi analyzes spending histories and account data to build a personalized monthly plan. This data-driven approach removes the friction of traditional budgeting and replaces it with clarity and convenience. The platform automatically categorizes transactions, tracks goals, and helps visualize cash flow over time — ideal for users who prefer a hands-off experience that still delivers deep insights.
Monarch Money
Monarch Money has quickly emerged as one of the strongest successors to Mint. Founded in 2018, Monarch brings a fresh design philosophy and a commitment to privacy that resonates with today’s tech-savvy consumers. Recently backed by a $75 million funding round, Monarch emphasizes intuitive design and user experience above all else.
What sets Monarch apart is its collaboration feature, which allows partners or family members to share and manage finances together. This makes it particularly appealing to couples who want transparency and teamwork in their financial journeys. Monarch charges a subscription fee of $14.99 per month, but unlike many competitors, it’s transparent about where that money goes — maintaining secure data connections and refusing to sell user information. The app’s multiple customization options for categorizing and presenting budgets give users full control over how they view and plan their finances.
You Need a Budget (YNAB)
You Need a Budget, or YNAB, takes a unique approach to money management. Instead of simply tracking expenses, it teaches users a philosophy: “Give every dollar a job.” Every dollar you earn should be intentionally assigned — whether for bills, savings, fun, or emergencies. This method transforms budgeting from a passive tracking process into an active plan for personal empowerment.
YNAB’s software provides the tools to carry out this philosophy by helping users set specific goals and monitor progress in real time. Many users find YNAB’s method transformative, although it can feel more hands-on compared to other apps. The subscription cost of $14.99 per month reflects its premium approach, offering educational resources, community support, and automation features that reward consistent, mindful budgeting habits.
Copilot Money
Copilot Money stands out for its sleek design and advanced technology. Inspired by the visual polish of investment apps like Robinhood, Copilot combines budget tracking with investment management, offering a comprehensive overview of both day-to-day spending and long-term financial health. Available across devices, its ecosystem provides a consistent, engaging experience whether you’re on mobile, tablet, or desktop.
The app’s intelligent AI-powered categorization automatically sorts and learns from your spending habits, saving time while offering accurate, real-time insights. Copilot also lets users create custom rules and reports for a fully tailored experience. While the $13 monthly fee may seem high, many users see the investment as worthwhile for the convenience, automation, and design elegance it provides.
Quick Comparison
| App Name | Monthly Cost | Best For | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quicken Simplifi | $8 – $10 | Hands-off budgeting | Automatic Spend Plan |
| Monarch Money | $14.99 | Collaborative budgeting | Partner sharing & privacy focus |
| YNAB | $14.99 | Goal setting & discipline | “Every dollar has a job” method |
| Copilot Money | $13 | Modern design & AI tracking | Cross-device financial integration |
How to Choose the Right Mint Alternative
– Identify your goals — Are you aiming to track expenses, save for specific targets, or manage shared finances?
– Compare subscription costs — Evaluate what features justify the monthly price for your needs.
– Explore usability — Test the app’s interface through free trials to see if it fits your workflow.
– Prioritize security — Look for transparency about data protection and connections to banks.
– Consider automation — If you prefer simplicity, select apps that handle categorization and goal tracking automatically.
Each of these apps offers a strong replacement for Mint but caters to different types of users. Quicken Simplifi excels for hands-off users; Monarch Money offers collaboration and privacy; YNAB suits disciplined planners; and Copilot Money caters to tech enthusiasts who value design and integration. With these tools, modern budgeting can become less of a chore and more of an empowering habit that supports your financial goals.
