I was recently exploring the Web 2.0 directory when I discovered a budgeting site that I thought might be of good use, especially in light of the insane gas prices.
No, the website won’t pay for your gas, or even discount your gas. But, it will help you figure out just how much you’re spending on gas (and everything else). It’s called Budget Pulse.
The site describes itself as a “simple application to track finances and payment obligations.”
The application is, in fact, quite simple to use. They use big icons and keep the navigation fairly simple. The dashboard is easy to digest, as well. It shows me my upcoming expenses (not so digestable, I know), plus it identifies how I’m doing with regard to my overall budget. My account balances are always displayed on the left hand side of the page, below the secondary navigation.
But, the layout isn’t the only thing worth mentioning. The site also allows you to import and/or export your data via Excel or CSV (very convenient). Plus, you can look at a monthly calendar with all of your data on it, which makes for a nice top-level view of things. The site also includes news from the major search engines if you’re into browsing financial related stuff.
There are still plenty of features I haven’t yet explored. For example, it looks like I can invite others to Budget Pulse. But, I don’t believe there is any social aspect to it. At least I hope there’s not. As much as I love my online friends, they don’t need to know my account balances.
Also, one reviewer of Budget Pulse was quoted as saying he liked the RSS option. Now, perhaps I’m blind, but I can’t seem to find that option. This would be a great feature, if added. I could be notified about my upcoming expenses, or if my account balance was dangerously low.
But, even without the notifications, I still like the site. I recommend you check it out. You may be surprised to find out just where your dollars are going (not just to Exxon).
