Thrifty Thinking: Seven Tyson-Approved Apps to Check Out

There's an app for everything, it seems. Not only can apps simplify tasks that used to require a computer, they bring a whole new level of convenience, motivation, and entertainment to your life. Young people, in particular, are accustomed to using apps to stream music, receive workout reminders, and get up-to-the-minute info on the latest sports scores—but could they also help you whip your personal finances into shape?
 Absolutely, says financial expert and best-selling author Eric Tyson, MBA—but only as long as you're smart and careful.

          If you're looking to make your financial life a bit easier and more convenient, it can help to have information on hand at the click of a smartphone app. Of course, not every app is right for every person. But Eric Tyson, MBA, author ofPersonal Finance in Your 20s & 30s For Dummies^® (Wiley, 2017, ISBN: 978-1-119-43141-1, $19.99), says you can probably feel good about the following ones.

FRED app. St. Louis Fed's signature economic database—FRED, which stands for Federal Reserve Economic Data—is accessible through an app. This is a rare case where you can have a wealth of data on the economy and financial markets at your fingertips and never be bombarded with ads or plugs to buy things.

Vanguard's app. "I use Vanguard's app," shares Tyson. "It has a broad array of cost-effective funds with solid long-term performance. In addition to Vanguard, other major fund companies with quality offerings and apps include T. Rowe Price and Fidelity. But many other banks, investment companies, brokers, and so on have apps. So if you have a favorite investment firm or bank, check out what it offers."

Goodbudget. Tyson likes the simplicity and practicality of this expense-tracking app. The basic version provides you with up to one year of expense-tracking history in ten main categories. There is also a paid or premium version, which provides up to five years of expense tracking with unlimited categories as well as email support.

"I suggest starting with the free version and then decide in the future if an upgrade is worth it," advises Tyson.

GasBuddy. This free app will show you the gas prices at various service stations in your area, so you can compare and get a good price when you fill up.

Tollsmart Toll Calculator. When going on lengthy car trips, car tolls can add up quickly. This is a low-cost app that lets you compare toll costs for alternative routes.

camelcamelcamel. A price tracker that scans items on Amazon, shows you their price history, and sends you alerts when a product you're interested in drops in price.

PriceGrabber. Here's another way to save money on commonly purchased items. This app scans items everywhere online, although its website is much easier to use.

          "Of course, there are countless other personal finance apps out there to explore," says Tyson. "Just do your research, proceed with caution, and never forget that apps should make your life easier and should help you further your financial goals. If you ever suspect any app isn't doing these things, it's time to reconsider."

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About the Author:
Eric Tyson, MBA, is an internationally acclaimed and best-selling personal finance author, counselor, and writer. He is the author of five national best-selling financial books including Investing For Dummies, Personal Finance For Dummies, andHome Buying Kit For Dummies. He has appeared on NBC's Today show, ABC, CNBC, FOX News, PBS, and CNN.