Before the advent of web-based banking, I was extremely dedicated to meticulously tracking every expense. While web-based banking offers simplicity, it isn't always the best solution. For instance, when trying to locate a specific transaction, my bank doesn't make it straightforward. I often have to set up filters in the history section, generate a report, and then painstakingly search through it. In contrast, when using a dedicated app for this purpose, finding a transaction was a breeze.

Discover the Best Linux Apps for Financial Tracking

GnuCash

I have relied on GnuCash for several years, and it has served me exceptionally well. It is highly suitable for both personal and business finances as it follows a double-entry accounting system. It offers support for multiple accounts, investments, currency conversion, comprehensive reports, budgeting, invoicing, printing, and much more. GnuCash is likely the most powerful financial management tool available for the Linux operating system. However, there is a slight learning curve initially. But once you get accustomed to it, it becomes an excellent choice. It isn't limited to Linux; you can also install it on MacOS and Windows. Moreover, it is free and released under the GPL license. To install GnuCash, simply use one of the following commands:sudo apt-get install gnucash -ysudo dnf install gnucash -ysudo flatpak install gnucashsudo pacman -S gnucashThe only drawback I notice with GnuCash is that its graphical user interface (GUI) is a bit outdated, but this doesn't affect the software's effectiveness.

Homebank

Homebank is another excellent personal accounting application available for Linux, MacOS, and Windows. It is easier to use compared to GnuCash and comes with a plethora of features. It has a powerful import system that can handle data from Intuit Quicken, Microsoft Money, and bank account statements in various formats like OFX, QFX, QIF, and CSV. It also supports multiple currencies and different types of accounts such as bank, cash, credit, and liability. It automatically numbers checks and assigns categories and payees. Additionally, it allows for scheduled transactions and category splitting. The user interface of Homebank is more modern, making it significantly easier to use compared to GnuCash. It can be easily installed on Linux with the following commands:sudo apt-get install homebank -ysudo dnf install homebank -ysudo pacman -S homebankHomebank is free to install and use.

KMyMoney

KMyMoney was initially developed for the KDE Plasma desktop environment but has now expanded to be used on any desktop environment, including MacOS and Windows. Unlike GnuCash, KMyMoney is dedicated solely to personal finance management. If you need to use it for business purposes, it is advisable to go back to GnuCash. KMyMoney includes all the essential features like support for multiple institutions and accounts, scheduled transactions, tags, payees, ledgers, investments, reports, and more. It has a somewhat Plasma-like UI, which means that when installed on a non-Plasma desktop, it will install a considerable number of dependencies (approximately 224). However, these dependencies are mostly libraries and are small in size, not interfering with your desktop. You can install KMyMoney using one of the following commands:sudo apt-get install kmymoney -ysudo dnf instlal kmymoney -ysudo pacman -S kmymoney

Skrooge

Finally, there is Skrooge. It is another open-source finance application that can be installed on Linux, MacOS, and Windows. Skrooge simplifies the process of importing data from various file formats like AFB120, QIF, CSV, MT940, OFX, and QFX. It even allows for direct import from your bank's website with just a single click. Skrooge is another application powered by the Plasma Desktop. So, if you install it on a non-Plasma desktop, you will have to accept the numerous dependencies it requires. It comes with features such as a tabbed interface, bookmarks, unlimited category levels, scheduled transactions, multiple currency support, payee management, reporting, budgeting, and the ability to import from other popular finance applications like KMYMONEY, Microsoft Money, GnuCash, Grisbi, Homebank, and Money Manager EX. You can install Skrooge on Linux (for free) using one of the following commands:sudo apt-get install skrooge -ysudo dnf install skrooge -ysudo pacman -S skroogeFor those who prefer installing apps through a graphical user interface (GUI), you can find each of these apps in options like GNOME Software, KDE Plasma Discover, and Octopi.