Question 1

What is the main difference between YNAB and Residual?

Accepted Answer

Both apps use zero-based budgeting, but their philosophies diverge on effort and automation. YNAB is built around intentional, daily manual engagement — its founders believe the friction of reviewing and approving every transaction is itself the financial habit. Residual agrees with the zero-based math but automates the daily chores: AI categorizes transactions, alerts fire only when you overspend, and a single Safe-to-Spend number tells you what you can spend right now.

Question 2

Do both apps use zero-based budgeting?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Both YNAB and Residual require you to allocate every dollar to a category or goal before you spend it. The difference is execution: YNAB requires you to manually review and approve transactions daily to keep your budget current, while Residual automates categorization and matching so your budget stays accurate without daily upkeep.

Question 3

Which app is easier to set up?

Accepted Answer

Residual is significantly easier to set up. YNAB requires 20–30 minutes of manual work to build custom categories and funding targets from scratch. Residual uses AI to analyze your transaction history and build an initial budget for you — you can then customize it as needed, but the heavy lifting is done automatically.

Question 4

Can I budget my future paychecks?

Accepted Answer

YNAB's core rule is to budget only the cash you currently have on hand — you cannot allocate a paycheck until it arrives in your account. Residual allows you to plan spending allocations against expected income before it arrives, so you can see how an upcoming paycheck will be distributed across your goals and bills without waiting for the deposit.

Question 5

How much does YNAB cost?

Accepted Answer

YNAB costs $14.99 per month or $109 per year (billed annually). They offer a 34-day free trial. Current pricing is available on YNAB's website.

Question 6

How much does Residual cost, and when will it launch?

Accepted Answer

Residual is currently in development and has not announced pricing. You can join the waitlist at residual.finance to receive early access and be notified about pricing when the app launches.

Feature	YNAB	Residual
Setup Process	Complex, manual template building	AI-assisted initial budget creation, fully customizable
Daily Management	Manual transaction approval	Automated categorization and matching
Primary Decision Tool	Granular category balances	Unified Safe-to-Spend number
Income Rule	Only budget cash currently on hand	Plan against expected income
Pricing	$14.99/mo or $109/yr	Currently establishing waitlist

YNAB vs. Residual

YNAB: Mindfulness Through Friction

Residual: Automation and the Safe-to-Spend Metric

Feature Comparison

Which budgeting app is right for you?

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Common questions about YNAB vs. Residual

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