Actual Budget is the project behind this setup. The safest first step is the desktop application. Do not create a finance server before learning whether the budgeting method fits you.
- Recommended method
- Desktop first; server optional
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Typical time
- 20–45 minutes
What you need
- A Windows, macOS or Linux computer
- A recent transaction export from your bank
- A secure backup location
- A server only if multi-device sync is required
Set it up
Install the desktop application
Download the official release, open Actual and create a new local budget.
Create accounts and starting balances
Begin from a recent date instead of importing years of history immediately.
Build one month of categories
Assign available money, enter or import transactions and reconcile the balances.
Export a backup
Close and reopen the application, then restore a copy to prove the budget is portable.
Add a server only when earned
Use the official server options if you need browser access, sync, API access or supported bank connections.
Reserved for launch
Verify it works
Do not call the setup finished until these small tests pass:
- Account balances reconcile
- Categories reflect available money correctly
- A budget export restores
- Bank compatibility is confirmed before relying on sync
Protect the service
- Treat bank-sync tokens as server secrets
- Do not assume end-to-end encryption covers every credential
- Use a unique server password and HTTPS
- Keep regular downloadable budget backups
Official resources
Videos are supplemental. Use the official documentation for current commands, versions and security guidance.