The 12 best money saving apps

Why Should I Use a Money-Saving App

Apps offer a level of convenience and accessibility previously unimaginable. I personally have witnessed the transformative power of technology in personal finance management first-hand. Money-saving apps have revolutionised how I track expenses, set budgets, and ultimately save some reddies. According to a 2023 report, 60% of UK consumers use financial apps at least once a day. However, that percentage drops to 14% for people using money management apps to budget, so the benefits of using technology to save money still need greater exposure.

We asked Liz Hunter, Director at Money Expert, what are the benefits of using apps to save money?

Many apps are designed to improve financial management, offering features such as manual and auto-saving, budgeting and expense tracking. From a money-saving perspective, these kinds of apps can help you visualise your money and move it into various ‘pots’ depending on your savings goals, as well as automatically rounding up payments and moving the difference to your savings. According to Monzo, using an auto-saving app could help you to save an extra £129 per year.

Some apps can also work out what you can afford to save, then automatically transfer this from your bank account to a virtual savings pot before you’ve had a chance to spend it. Other apps, such as Emma and Snoop, are better for general budgeting and will help you save money by reducing your outgoings and preventing you from getting into debt. They analyse your outgoings and spending habits and use this to calculate how much you could save by reducing your spending. This analysis helps you see where your money is going, and more importantly, where you’re spending the most money to help you reduce non-essential spending, which you can then turn into savings. Others like Plum will send you overviews of your spending along with alerts to see if there are cheaper deals on household bills.

Main Benefits of Using a Money-Saving App

Good for those who struggle to save

Liz Hunter explains: "The idea of using these apps is that you’ll be able to build up savings without really thinking about it or noticing that the money is leaving your account. They’re ideal for those who struggle to save money or don’t know where to start with savings. If you’re feeling like it’s taking too much, you can always tell the app to save less or move the money from your savings back into your account if you need it."

Flexible and quick to set up

These apps make budgeting easy by connecting directly to your different bank accounts. Most of them are free to install and very quick to set up and adjust.

Provides a simple overview of your finances

Money-saving apps are quite easy to read. All of your main information is laid out clearly on your main dashboard so you can easily access it and analyse your spending and your savings goals. It gives you more autonomy and helps you focus on your long-term goals.

Get real time alerts

Money-saving apps are generally quite safe, as Liz Hunter explains: "With most apps, you’ll be able to ask for notifications to alert you to possible fraudulent activity on any of your accounts." In addition to safety alerts, you can get notified on due payments, reaching a goal or any new activity in your financial situation.

What Are the Different Types of Money-Saving Apps?

Before looking at the best money-saving apps, let’s have a look at the different types available. Because yes, even if saving money is the common goal, not all apps offer the same ways to help you achieve it.

* These services are often combined in one app.

The great thing about these apps is that they can be used in combination to maximise your savings.

1. Start with a budgeting app to assess your financial situation, track your spending, and set your savings goal.
2. Add an automated savings app to organise your transfers to your savings accounts and prioritise your goal.
3. Use an app to sell your unused items and earn a bit of extra cash towards your goal (or regular lattes).
4. Add a cashback app to earn some money back on your online shopping and spend as little as you can.

Fiona Peake, Consumer Money Saving Expert at Ocean Finance says,

Budgeting, discount, and cashback apps offer an easy way to track spending, find the best deals, and even earn money back on everyday purchases, all from the convenience of your phone. These tools can help shoppers make better-informed decisions, resulting in huge savings.

What Are the Best Budgeting Apps

Budgeting apps are a convenient way to track your spending and organise your budget. They can connect to your bank account and credit card to track your income, expenses, and savings in real time. You can then see in the blink of an eye which categories you’re spending the most on, what areas you could cut back on, and start budgeting effectively.

Beyond budgeting, some of these apps can also provide valuable intel for available deals.

Steven Kibbel, financial planner, entrepreneur, and Chief Editorial Advisor at Gold IRA Companies says:

Some apps even help users manage subscriptions and negotiate bills. In today's world of numerous streaming services and recurring charges, it's easy to lose track of what we're paying for. These apps can identify unnecessary expenses and even help lower existing bills through negotiation, leading to substantial savings over time.

1. Snoop

Snoop is a UK-based app that uses open banking to provide personalised money-saving tips and insights. Developed by former Virgin Money executives, Snoop is built on extensive financial expertise and makes it easy to analyse your spending habits while offering tailored tips and deals to help you save money on everyday expenses like energy and car insurance.

Snoop is among the best money management apps. It helps users identify unnecessary expenditures and discover new ways to save money. Its personalised approach is a particular strength, ensuring that tips and deals are relevant, making it easier to manage finances effectively. Want to cut down the cost of broadband, pet insurance, or your mobile contract? Choose the bill you'd like to cut and let Snoop work its magic in finding you a better deal. When identifying needless outgoings, you should take a look at our tips for saving on gym memberships and discovering how much it costs to own a pet.

Key Features

• Spending Insights: Detailed analysis of your spending patterns.
• Instant Budget: Create a budget for your monthly spendings.
• Personalised Tips: Custom money-saving suggestions based on your spending.
• Deal Alerts: Notifications of deals and discounts relevant to your lifestyle.
• Cut your Bills: Save money on your household bills.
• Custom Alerts: Get notifications for your next direct debits or incoming bills.
• Connects to 50+ banks: Revolut, American Express, HSBC, NatWest, Barclays…

Pros

Snoop’s free plan includes all its key features; you don’t need Snoop+ to start budgeting like a pro. Plus, its other plan is super affordable. For £5.99/month, you can access other features like unlimited custom spending categories, unlimited spending reports and alerts, or spending tracking from payday to payday.

My colleague Céline Pastezeur and her husband use Snoop for budgeting. She explains:

My husband suggested Snoop so we could get a clearer idea of our spending habits. I found it very practical: it groups expenditures by categories, giving you a global view of your monthly spending. Personally, it helped me realise that I spent quite a lot of money on fashion, more than I thought I was! And I could adjust my way of consuming in that area, which worked out great for our common finances.

2. Emma

Emma is one of the most popular budgeting apps in the U.K., with over 2M users. It helps users build their credit, control their spending, and save money efficiently.

Emma offers smart features, such as net worth tracking and an in-depth subscription, that help users track their progress and cut back on unnecessary expenses. Consumers can also open multiple saving pots and earn interest on their savings. This is a great option if you want your savings towards a new car or your next holiday to work a bit for you.

Emma offers four different plans:

• Basic: free, 2 bank logins, bank transfers up to £500 monthly, up to 2.53% AER, investment options.
• Plus: £59.88/year, 4 bank logins, bank transfers up to £1,000 monthly, cashback deals, budgeting and enhanced tracking, priority support, Emma for Web, rent reporting, fraud detection, up to 3.67% AER, investment options.
• Pro: £119.88/year, unlimited bank logins, bank transfers up to £3,000 monthly, cashback deals, budgeting and enhanced tracking, priority support, Emma for Web, rent reporting, fraud detection, up to 3.67% AER, investment options, net worth tracking.
• Ultimate: £179.88/year, unlimited bank logins, unlimited bank transfers, custom Spaces to organise your money, cashback deals, budgeting and enhanced tracking, priority support, Emma for Web, rent reporting, fraud detection, up to 3.67% AER, investment options, add up to 4 extra members.

Key Features

• Track Expenses: In-depth analysis of your spending habits.
• Budgeting Goal: Set your saving goal(s) and keep track of your journey.
• Subscriptions Analysis: Analyse your subscriptions to find duplicate charges or forgotten subscriptions.
• Net Worth Tracking: Keep track of all your accounts and follow your net worth in real time.
• Multiple Saving Pots with Interest: Earn up to 3.67% AER with FSCS protection in your unlimited saving pots.
• Cashback: Rewards up to 30% of cashback with over 500 cashback offers.

Pros

Emma’s features are some of the most complete in the market. It’s an all-in-one app that can help users learn how to budget, save money, earn cashback and even invest if they want to.

Cons

Emma’s free plan can be a little limited if you want a comprehensive experience. You won’t be able to access cashback, budgeting, enhanced tracking, or net worth tracking, and your interest rate will be significantly lower than what you can get with the other plans. We recommend choosing its “Plus" plan to make the most of the app.

3. YNAB

YNAB (standing for “You Need A Budget") is an American company built around a specific mindset: “Give every dollar a job". More than a budgeting app, YNAB provides a method to simplify spending decisions and help users better manage their money.

YNAB connects to your bank account and tracks your spending and your savings goals, so you can always be on top of your finances.

Key Features

• Multiple Devices: Track your finances from your phone, tablet, or laptop, even offline.
• Subscription Sharing: Family finances made easy, with up to 6 people allowed with one subscription.
• Customisable Views: Makes it easy to visualise all your details in a way that works for your brain.
• Goal Tracking: Eases the savings process by clarifying your goal, planning your spending accordingly, and monitoring your progress.
• Loan Calculator: Helps you go further in your financial journey by estimating your potential interest rate and the best way to pay your loan back.

Pros

More than a saving app, YNAB is teaching you how to save and manage your money. Free workshops, articles, and resources are available online for you to become an expert at personal finance.

Cons

There is no free version of the app. You have to choose between a yearly or monthly plan, respectively retailing at $109/year and $14.99/month (around £80 and £11 each). However, you can get a 34-day free trial before making a decision.

Honourable Mention

Moneyhub

We couldn’t list the best budgeting apps without talking about Moneyhub. In a Reddit thread discussing the best personal finance and money-saving apps in the UK, several users mentioned Moneyhub as being their top pick.

However, Moneyhub is now closing its consumer-facing app. The closure is scheduled for Summer 2026, so we’re not adding it to our list.

What Are the Best Personal Finance and Automated Savings Apps

Personal finance and automated savings services are often combined in one app. They give you access to financial services like stocks, investment opportunities, or savings accounts with competitive rates. These apps are a great way to take your savings to the next level.

1. Chip

Chip is a UK-born app, aiming to help customers achieve financial freedom. The app was awarded “Best Personal Finance App" in 2019, 2022, 2024 and 2025 at the British Bank Awards. Users can access different savings accounts with competitive rates and invest to watch their money grow.

Key Features

• In-Depth Tools & Resources: Access different calculators (interest rates, saving goals…) and resources to learn how to manage your finances.
• Different Savings Accounts: Choose between four maing savings accounts with competitive rates.
• Automated Savings: Your money transferred automatically to your chosen account.
• Tax-Free Investing: Invest up to £20,000 per year in a Stocks & Shares ISA, tax and hassle-free.
• Investment Funds: Access to different funds to wider your investment portfolio.

Pros

Chip offers a lot of different savings solutions that can work for everyone. Auto-save makes it easy to transfer your money into your savings account, and interest rates are usually quite interesting. Plus, the app is free to download, so there are no extra fees.

Cons

The free plan has platform fees and additional fees on some features, like Autosaves, compared to the ChipX plan. Depending on how you intend to use your account, calculate your best option beforehand.

2. Credit Karma

Credit Karma is a highly popular and widely trusted personal finance app from Intuit, a leader in financial software. With a solid track record within the industry, Credit Karma (formerly Mint) has become a go-to for many looking to manage their money effectively. It’s a comprehensive personal finance app to help users track their credit score, get a credit card, or ask for a loan.

Key Features

• Credit Score Monitoring: Keep an eye on your credit health.
• Financial Insights: Assesses your financial situation and gives personalised insights and tips.
• Personalised Recommendations: For credit cards and other financial products, based on your financial situation.

Pros

Credit Karma offers a holistic approach to money management, helping users avoid overspending and identify opportunities to save. Its user-friendly interface and robust features make it an essential tool for anyone serious about financial health. I use the Credit Karma app to track every penny going in and out of my various accounts daily, so I can testify to the transformative effect of budgeting apps. Take a look at my 10 cool ways AI can save you money article to learn more about budgeting tools.

Cons

It is not really a con, more of an advice: always check multiple platforms to have a good idea of your actual credit score. Although Credit Karma uses data from trusted sources like Equifax or TransUnion, it’s always best to check on other sources or even directly with your bank to make sure your credit score is correct.

3. Plum

Plum is a micro-investing app that provides an easy and consistent way to save and grow your money. With multiple savings accounts, automatic transfers, or access to market funds and stocks and shares ISA.

Founded by experts in finance and technology, Plum is renowned for its innovative micro-investing capabilities, making investing accessible to everyone. It offers robust investment options, and user feedback is very positive for usability.

Key Features

• Round-Up Investments: Invest spare change from everyday purchases.
• Various saving options: Choose from 8 automatic saving rules.
• Automatic Recurring Investments: Set up regular investments without hassle.
• Budget Smarter: Get the Plum debit card to group together your money.
• Spending Insights: Overview your spending habits.
• Lifestyle Perks: Offers on cinema tickets, discounts on meals, drinks, and day outs, and more.
  
  

Pros

You can already get a lot from the free version, like access to 6 auto savers, up to 4.38% AER on your savings, Plum Interest money market fund, or General Investment Account (GIA). In addition, the “Plus" plan retails at only £3.99/month and offers even more perks at a low rate, like spending insights, more auto savers, 16 customisable saving pockets, or Stocks and Shares.

Cons

The only way to enjoy deals and discount perks is by subscribing to the “Max" plan, retailing at £14.99/month.

What Are the Best Cashback and Discounts Apps

These apps are a great way to save money on your online purchases or earn some money back. When you have a tight budget, that can be a lifesaver. And pro tip: add the money you saved to a savings pot or account to build your savings bit by bit every day.

1. TopCashback

TopCashback is a trusted name in cashback rewards, with millions of users benefiting from its offers. It has a proven track record of efficiently delivering cash back, with the app focused on grocery shopping and other retail purchases. Why wouldn’t you want to earn money back from everyday items you would buy anyway?

Top Features

• Cashback Offers: Get money back on groceries, clothing, electronics, and more.
• Bonus Rewards: Complete tasks for additional rewards.
• Exclusive Offers and Discounts: Access promotions exclusive to TopCashback members.
• Track Your Earnings: Real-time tracking of cashback earnings.

Pros

The TopCashback app allows you to compare prices across different retailers before purchasing. You will also earn bonus cashback by referring friends and family to the app, making it even easier to enjoy a budget-friendly shopping experience. Users can quickly turn their shopping into savings with a simple redemption process. If straightforward savings are more your thing, find the latest discounts for thousands of retailers at Savoo.

Cons

You won’t be able to withdraw your cashback right away. Cashback websites have to wait until they receive their commission from the retailer before they can add the money to your account. It’s not a great solution if you want to save money quickly.

2. Nectar

Nectar is the biggest loyalty card scheme in the UK, so it’s a good idea to download the Nectar app to keep track of your points and ensure that you never miss out on a bonus. With an extensive network of partners, the Nectar card is a versatile tool for saving money. Check out our guide on how to get a Nectar card first.

Key Features

• Points Collection: Earn points from purchases at partner stores like Sainsbury’s and Argos.
• Reward Redemption: Use points for discounts, vouchers, and special offers.
• Partner Network: Extensive list of participating retailers and service providers.
• Take to the Skies for Less: Convert your Nectar points to flights with British Airways.

Pros

Nectar app users rack up points 3x faster, so make sure you download the actual app to access hundreds of bonus points and personalised discounts, which appear on the app every week. Access more food & drink savings today!

Cons

Discounts can be a tad long to earn (500 points are worth £2.50 off at Sainsbury’s). You need to be patient to build your credit, but access to special discounts usually makes it worthwhile.

I use the Nectar app every week to activate my bonus point offers and shop the special Nectar prices in my local Sainsbury’s, which really boosts how quickly the points add up. By consistently claiming the personalised offers and planning my food shop around them, I’d built up over £50 worth of Nectar points in time for my Christmasfood shop. It made all the difference to my stretched festive budget!

3. Olio

Thinking outside the box, Olio is a UK-based app that helps to reduce food waste by connecting neighbours and local businesses to share surplus food and household items. The app has garnered widespread acclaim for its combined impact on the environment and household budgets. I have some experience with the Olio app, and I found it a highly rewarding way to help others with food that would otherwise be wasted.

Key Features

• Food Listings: Post or browse listings for free surplus food.
• Community Connections: Connect with neighbours and local businesses.
• Non-Food Items: Share or find other household items for free.
• Save Money: Lend and borrow items in your local community.

Pros

If money is tight, the Olio app helps users save on grocery bills by providing access to free food. It also fosters a sense of community and encourages sustainable living by reducing food waste. Clothes, books, toys, and more can be donated, traded, or even sold on the Olio platform, perfect for anyone who wants to embrace the preloved lifestyle. As a bonus, two in three Olio users say sharing boosts their mental health.

Cons None that we can think of. A way to get free food and items while supporting sustainability will always win.

My colleague Nathalie Bellido used Olio when she first moved to England. She explains:

Using Olio, I was able to find free second-hand home items in my neighbourhood, like a clothes airer or brand new tableware. Arriving in a new country, that was very helpful not to spend all of my savings from the start. I was very happy to give a new life to pre-used items, and even more to meet some of my new neighbours.

Honourable Mentions

Tesco Clubcard

It’s hard to talk about cashback and rewards programs without mentioning Tesco Clubcard. The brand’s reward program gives you access to special prices and discounts and lets you earn points toward rewards and discounts. If you want to know more, discover 10 surprising ways to use Tesco Clubcard vouchers on Savoo’s blog.

Too Good To Go

Too Good To Go is an institution for people fighting food waste. Select a nearby restaurant or shop, a time slot, and get an affordable surprise food bag. It’s a great way for companies to reduce food waste and for users to eat out for a fraction of the price.

What Are the Best Apps to Earn Money

Saving money is great, but earning a little extra cash is always a good idea. Whether you put it away towards a savings goal like future holidays or a down payment for a new house, or simply use it back quickly to help you live more comfortably every month, earning extra money doesn’t have to be complicated.

1. Vinted

The Vinted app is revolutionising how people shop for and sell pre-loved fashion. Its marketplace allows users to buy, sell, and swap reasonably priced second-hand clothes and accessories. With Vinted, you can save money while contributing to a healthier planet through sustainable fashion. Whether you want to clear out your closet or hunt for unique, affordable fashion treasures, this app is a must!

Top Features

• Easy Listing: Quickly list items for sale with photos and descriptions.
• Buyer Protection: Secure transactions with buyer protection guarantees.
• Community Features: Engage with other users to swap or sell items.
• Zero Selling Fees: Enjoy the benefit of no selling fees.

Pros

Selling your pre-loved items has never been easier, and 100% free! Vinted doesn’t take a commission out of your earnings. What you sell is what you get!

Cons

The use of AI by some sellers can be misleading, with false images or pictures using AI models. Keep your eyes open to avoid getting scammed.

Savoo.fr editor Marine Garnier used Vinted before moving flats. Here is what she says:

I used Vinted a lot last year before moving houses. It helped me declutter my space, from books to clothing or beauty accessories (which I’m known for accumulating…). Over a few weeks, I’ve made close to £80, which I was able to reinvest into hiring a Man with a Van for moving day!

2. Fiverr

Fiverr is one of the leading freelancing websites on the market. In its desktop or app version, you can register your services and get hired for a job. Whether you want to freelance as your main activity or simply earn some extra pounds regularly, you can do it easily through the platform.

Top Features

• 700+ Categories: From coding to design, translation, marketing, writing, music, business, personal growth…
• 24/7 interface: Whatever you need as a client or a seller, you can reach or be reachable easily at all times.
• Fraud protection: Fiverr offers protection against fraud to make sure sellers and buyers are safe.
• Easy Project Management: Clients and providers can track projects in different workflows.

Pros

You can allow as much time to the platform as you need. If you want to offer your services for a short period of time, like during a holiday or unemployment, or if you want to earn a regular income, you’re the master of your own time and work investment.

Cons

Although signing up to Fiverr is free, the website takes a 20% commission out of your income. For example, if you sell a service for £100, you’ll only get £80 in your pocket. Also, be aware that from a certain yearly income, you will have to pay taxes on your freelance activity.

3. Swagbucks

Swagbucks is an easy and low-investment way of getting some coins into your virtual piggy bank. By answering surveys, playing games, or watching videos, you earn gift cards for some of your favourite retailers or cash through your PayPal account.

Top Features

• Various Apps: In addition to its all-in-one app, Swagbucks also offers a survey-specific app, Answer, and a free mobile game called Trivia.
• Cashback Extension: Install Swagbucks’ browser extension to get cashback offers when shopping online.
• Referral Program: You can earn extra gift cards by referring friends to Swagbucks.
• Charity Donations: If you’re financially able to, you can transfer your cash or gift cards to a charity of your choice.

Pros

You can get cashback or gift cards from some of the biggest retailers, like Amazon, Best Buy, or Tesco. Very convenient for saving on all your future purchases.

Cons

Your cash stash takes a little time to build up. 1,000 SB points are equivalent to a £10 prize, and it can take a few weeks to get there. It probably won’t be an option if you’re in a hurry for some extra cash.

Honourable Mentions

Vestiaire Collective

Same as Vinted, Vestiaire Collective allows you to sell your items. However, it is to sell luxury clothing and fashion exclusively. So not necessarily for everyone.

Taskrabbit

Similar to Fiverr, Taskrabbit allows you to offer your services for hire, but the app specialises in handyman-type services, like plumbing, moving furniture, or painting. It can be a bit more time-consuming and require a little more work than some quick and easy freelancing.