But many potential customers, particularly older users, are uncomfortable with turning over their account information to a third party. To reach a broader audience, some budget sites are adapting. Money Strands, which was rolled out less than a year ago, offers manual and automatic data entry. Mint.com said that it also plans to offer manual data entry in coming months.
“Many people from all ages say, ‘I would never share that information,’ ” said Diane Ty, an AARP senior vice president and expert on personal finance.
MINT.COM
Pros: Mint.com uses state-of-the-art software to extract a user’s financial information from bank accounts, credit cards, and other sources. Unlike some sites, it also tracks a wide range of financial activities, from IRAs to college funds. Other features include a weekly e-mail or text message listing user’s five largest expenditures. Slick, colorful graphics and an iPhone application are also appealing.
Cons: Requires users to turn over account passwords, though the company points out that it does not store users’ personal information - only data - or their passwords. Users report issues arise from downloading data from their bank or other accounts such as an inability to connect to certain financial institutions and glitches in categorizing some expenditures.
Final word: Mint.com is the granddaddy of budgeting websites. The site said that it is working to continually support more institutions.
Cons: The newest of the budget-tracking sites is still working out the kinks and responding to user comments and complaints. Does not integrate investment accounts.
Final word: The jury’s out. But Atakan Cetinsoy, vice president of personal finance products, said the company is serious about creating a website that strikes the crucial balance between simplicity and usefulness. An “obvious next step” is to integrate users’ investment accounts, he said.
PEARBUDGET.COM
Pros: Popular because it’s really easy to use and simplifies for people who may be overwhelmed by budgeting. Founder responds personally to users’ questions.
Cons: No automated data download - only manual expense and income entry is allowed by the software.
Final word: Created by Charlie and Sarah Park in 2004 and still run out of their Williamsburg, Va., home. Park said he remains true to his original mission of helping people, providing personal service, and creating a homey feel.
WESABE.COM
Pros: The best site for people who seek the emotional encouragement of an online support group to discuss financial issues or solicit solutions to problems such as debt overload. Offers suggestions for low-cost retailers in the user’s neighborhood. Has iPhone and other smartphone apps. User complaints and questions are visible to all - not just members who log in.
Cons: Advice from third parties can be unreliable. Users complain that responses to requests for Web support have slowed, and the company agrees it is running behind. Automated data extraction only.
Final word: The four-year-old company is one of the most popular sites - 37,500 unique visits per month - and suffers from some growing pains. Customer support has slowed but remains a priority: Founder and chief executive Marc Hedlund responds personally on the site to users with complaints and questions.
JUSTTHRIVE.COM
Pros: Cool feature allows users to designate a specific savings goal and track progress toward that goal. The site also provides education or guidance about how to reach goal.
Cons: Automated data extraction only. Budget tracker also can be accessed via MoneyRight.com in the wake of acquisition by Lending Tree.
Final word: For those who find it hard to take directions via e-mail or Twitter, JustThrive is a great bet. It provides good customer service over the phone, which is important for serious budget trackers who aren’t Web whizzes
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