New Year, New Financial Goals!
After the holiday season and seeing your wallet take a plunge, it's time to reset and plan for your financial wellbeing in 2025. Finding the right tools that work for you can be challenging, especially if you're not sure where to start. Below are four different ideas to help jumpstart your smart budgeting journey with ease.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
AI Smart Budgeting Tools
Simply search "AI budgeting tools," and you'll find a variety of free and paid AI recommendations. From voice-activated expense tracking apps like MonAi to apps that analyze spending habits using bank statements, such as Cleo and Skwad, there’s something for everyone. Some focus on debt management, while others emphasize investment and savings. If you prefer a more hands-on, manual approach with a visual structure, GoodBudget could be a great start. GoodBudget uses an envelope budgeting system to help users allocate money to specific spending categories. What's unique about this app is that it allows you to create personalized "envelopes" for clearer budget management.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Listen to Budgeting Experts
There are many audiobooks on smart budgeting and financial management available in the Markham Public Library’s catalog. From debt-clearing strategies to smart investment tips from industry professionals, there’s something for everyone. Here is an audio-book reading list on all things budgeting and money management to get you started. The best part? You can listen to these audiobooks anytime, anywhere—just make sure you have a Markham Public Library card! Learn how to get a library card here.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Morningstar Webinars and Talks
With a Markham Library card, you gain access to Morningstar, a trusted platform offering information on investments, funds, markets, and tools. Morningstar also provides a tutorial center that walks you through how to use the site, along with reading suggestions, a glossary, and lessons on investing basics. Many don’t know that Morningstar also offers webinars on wealth management and strategies! On-demand sessions, such as goals-based investment planning and tax-smart investing, are available to help you dive deeper into wealth-building techniques.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Financial Programs and Workshops
Did you know that Markham Public Library offers a range of free financial workshops every quarter? We cover topics like household expense-saving hacks, understanding cash flow, and smart strategies for achieving financial stability—especially for those with irregular income. Check out our program calendar to see which workshops suit your needs.
More Resources
Want additional resources on budgeting apps for 2025? One of our community partners, Chartered Professional Accountants, has a great article on the latest budgeting apps for 2025. Check it out for more recommendations - here!
Smart budgeting audiobooks provide practical tips on managing finances, including budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management. They offer strategies to help listeners achieve financial goals and build better money habits, making financial literacy accessible on the go.
Add a comment to: Jumpstart Your 2025 Financial Goals: Smart Budgeting Tips, AI Tools and more!