Money·3 min read

These Books (and Apps) Make It Surprisingly Easy to Manage Your Money

A woman looking through charts on a smartphone
Design: theSkimm | Photo: iStock
April 4, 2022

There’s no such thing as a wrong time to reevaluate your finances. Especially when studies say women are less confident than men when it comes to money management. So where can you learn to boost your financial know-how (and confidence)? Starting at the bookstore is one good idea.

Books to Help You Understand How to Manage Money

You probably didn't get to learn how to manage your money in school. Because even now, only 21 states require some personal finance education for graduation. If you aren’t among the lucky few from one of those states, head to your fave local bookstore (or library) for these reads.

Why didn't they teach me this in school book with piggy bank on it

Why didn't they teach me this in school

Our sentiments exactly, Cary. This one doesn’t answer the burning question. But it does teach all the lessons we missed. Which makes it a must-read.

Read it

Why Didn’t They Teach Me This in School?” by Cary Siegel

Our sentiments exactly, Cary. This one doesn’t answer the burning question. But it does teach all the lessons we missed. Which makes it a must-read.

The Next Millionaire Next Door

If you’re a beginner at managing money, and you’re into stat-backed tips, this one's for you. 

Read It

The Next Millionaire Next Door” by Dr. Thomas J. Stanley and Dr. Sarah Stanley Fallaw

If you’re a beginner at managing money, and you’re into stat-backed tips, this one's for you. 

The Automatic Millionaire” by David Bach 

All about building a financial system that brings in $1 million. With real-life examples and resources. (Hello, passive income.)

But what if I’m not a reader?

No worries. Books aren’t the only option. There are apps for that. And no, we aren’t talking about the Kindle app. (It’s a good bookstore alternative, though).

Expert-Recommended Money Management Apps

Online budgeting tools let you hook up your bank and credit-card accounts and automatically track every cent. That can make it easier for you to build, tweak, and stick to your budget. (And check out all the ways automation can save you money and stress.)

Mint

This app is at the top of almost everyone’s list. Maybe because it’s free. Bonus: You can use it to access your TransUnion credit report. PS: Here’s what to do if you find an error.

You Need a Budget (aka YNAB)

We do. This app is worth considering if you’re ready to get serious about keeping track of your spending. As in, $99 per year serious.  

Honeydue

If you and your partner are working with a combined budget, this app is a great helping hand. Link your bank accounts and tackle money management together. For free. 

Psst...if you’re working on separating finances after a break-up, here’s how to get your finances together. No trip to the app store needed. 

theSkimm

If you feel clueless about money management, you're not alone. And the best way to master your finances is to take the first step…to the bookstore or the app store.

Subscribe to Skimm Money

Your source for the biggest financial headlines and trends, and how they affect your wallet.

fbtwitteremail