17 Best Zero Based Budgeting Software Reviewed in 2025
Best Zero Based Budgeting Software Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best zero based budgeting software:
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Zero based budgeting can help you regain control over every dollar in your budget—but managing it manually is slow and prone to errors. That’s where zero based budgeting software comes in.
As a financial controller, I’ve dealt with the same headaches: messy spreadsheets, unclear numbers, and too much back-and-forth—which is why I put together this list.
Using my knowledge in financial operations, I tested and reviewed these tools myself to help you skip the trial and error, and find a solution that actually works. Let’s get started.
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Best Zero Based Budgeting Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top zero based budgeting software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for large enterprise scalability | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 2 | Best for integrated financial reporting | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 3 | Best for AI-driven budgeting insights | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 4 | Best for continuous planning processes | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 5 | Best for spreadsheet integration | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for financial scenario planning | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for startup organizations | 30-day free trial | From $9.99/user/month | Website | |
| 8 | Best for personal finance tracking | 15-day free trial and free plan available | From $20/year (billed annually) | Website | |
| 9 | Best for intuitive user interface | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 10 | Best for cloud-based budgeting | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
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LiveFlow
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.9 -
Float Financial
Visit Website -
Vena
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.5
Best Zero Based Budgeting Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best zero based budgeting software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer an in-depth look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Anaplan is a cloud-based planning platform designed for large enterprises to manage complex financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting. It serves finance teams looking for a scalable solution to handle intricate business processes.
Why I picked Anaplan: Anaplan is ideal for you if you’re working with complex or large-scale operations. It makes it easy to build and tweak financial models so they actually match how your business works and help you gain control of your money. The real-time data updates also mean your team isn’t stuck waiting around—you can make quick, informed decisions as things change. And since it scales easily, it grows right along with your business, which makes it a solid pick for larger teams or enterprises.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced scenario planning to help you explore different business outcomes. The platform also provides real-time collaboration tools to enhance team communication. Additionally, it offers detailed analytics for deeper insights into financial data.
Integrations include Salesforce, Workday, Microsoft Azure, SAP, Oracle, Slack, Tableau, Docusign, ServiceNow, and Google Workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible modeling capabilities
- Supports large-scale operations
- Real-time data processing
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Requires technical expertise
Prophix is a corporate performance management tool designed for mid-sized to large businesses. It helps finance teams with budgeting, planning, and integrated financial reporting.
Why I picked Prophix: Prophix does a great job when it comes to pulling your financial reporting all into one place. It has helpful features like automated reports and customizable dashboards, so your team can build clear, detailed reports without all the manual work. If you’re looking for a tool that brings everything together and gives you a full picture of your finances, Prophix is definitely worth a try.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include built-in workflows to streamline approvals and keep budgeting processes on track. Its scenario planning tools also let you test different financial outcomes so you can plan ahead with confidence.
Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, NetSuite, SAP, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Workday, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Office 365.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrated financial reporting
- Supports collaborative planning
- Reduces manual data entry
Cons:
- Complex initial setup
- Limited mobile access
Drivetrain is a strategic finance platform aimed at modern businesses, focusing on enhancing financial planning and analysis. It caters to finance teams looking to automate key workflows and improve strategic decision-making.
Why I picked Drivetrain: Drivetrain uses AI to take the heavy lifting out of financial planning and analysis. It helps you build solid cash flow forecasts and revenue plans fast—without getting lost in complex spreadsheets. But what really stands out is how it pulls in real-time data to keep your forecasts up to date. As things change, your plans can change with them, making Drivetrain a smart tool for staying on top of strategy.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include financial consolidation for a unified view of finances. Its cash flow forecasting also helps your team manage liquidity effectively. Additionally, the software’s headcount planning ensures you can plan staffing needs accurately.
Integrations include NetSuite, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Xero, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Workday, Slack, and Google Workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- AI-driven insights
- Real-time data access
- Customizable reporting
Cons:
- Complex setup process
- Few industry-specific templates
Planful is a financial planning and analysis platform designed for businesses of all sizes. It assists finance teams with budgeting, forecasting, and continuous planning to improve financial performance.
Why I picked Planful: Planful makes it easy to keep your budgets and forecasts up to date with real-time changes. You can quickly adjust plans, run different scenarios, and stay ahead of whatever’s coming your way. This, combined with the platform’s clean, user-friendly layout, helps make even the more complex tasks and financial goals feel less overwhelming.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include dynamic reporting that provides up-to-date financial insights. It also provides built-in collaboration tools that make it easy for teams across departments to contribute to budgets and forecasts.
Integrations include NetSuite, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Workday, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports continuous planning
- Flexible financial strategies
- Real-time budget adjustments
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Few industry-specific templates
Cube is a financial planning and analysis tool designed for businesses that rely heavily on spreadsheets. It helps finance teams streamline budgeting, forecasting, and reporting processes.
Why I picked Cube: Cube still feels like a spreadsheet—just smarter. It plugs right into your existing setup, so you can keep your workflows and data just the way you like them. The software also gives you clear visibility into every dollar, allowing you to build your budget from the ground up, track spending in real time, and adjust quickly—all without starting your initiatives over.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated data syncing that ensures your spreadsheets are always up-to-date. Its version control also helps you track changes and maintain data integrity, while its enhanced reporting capabilities provide insights into financial performance.
Integrations include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, NetSuite, QuickBooks, Xero, Salesforce, SAP, Workday, and Microsoft Dynamics.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Seamless spreadsheet integration
- Automated data syncing
- Enhanced reporting capabilities
Cons:
- Complex setup process
- Limited mobile access
Farseer is a financial modeling and planning tool aimed at businesses looking to improve their traditional budgeting and forecasting processes. It serves finance teams by providing a platform for creating detailed financial scenarios and plans.
Why I picked Farseer: Farseer really shines when it comes to financial scenario planning. You can easily build and compare different models to see how things might play out, which is very helpful for making smart decisions. It also comes with features like multi-dimensional planning and real-time updates, so your team can explore different outcomes without getting bogged down. Plus, if scenario planning is a big part of your workflow, Farseer definitely stands out from the usual budgeting tools.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced financial modeling that helps you simulate various business scenarios. It also offers real-time data updates to keep your team informed. Additionally, its multi-dimensional planning lets you analyze data from different perspectives for budgeting processes.
Integrations include Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, SAP, Oracle, QuickBooks, Xero, Salesforce, Slack, Dropbox, and Microsoft Teams.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed scenario planning
- Multi-dimensional analysis
- Easy plan adjustments
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Steep learning curve
Mosaic is a financial planning and analysis tool designed for startups and small businesses. It helps finance teams manage budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting efficiently.
Why I picked Mosaic: Mosaic is built with startups in mind, making financial planning way less overwhelming. It provides tools like budget tracking and variance analysis to help your team stay on top of where the money’s going, while its clean and easy to read dashboards help you use your data to make smart calls. Since it’s designed specifically for growing businesses, Mosaic guides you through zero based budgeting processes without the usual hassle.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include budget tracking that helps you monitor spending against your plans. The software’s variance analysis also provides insights into financial discrepancies, helping you take corrective actions. Plus, Moasic offers intuitive dashboards that present data clearly and concisely.
Integrations include QuickBooks, NetSuite, Xero, Sage Intacct, Salesforce, Slack, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, Box, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Tailored for startups
- Efficient budget tracking
- Simple variance analysis
Cons:
- Limited scalability for large enterprises
- Basic reporting features
MoneyPatrol is a personal finance tracking tool that serves individuals and small business owners. It helps users monitor spending, track budgets, and gain insights into their financial health.
Why I picked MoneyPatrol: MoneyPatrol is a great pick if you want a clear picture of your personal finances. It sends helpful alerts, breaks down your spending, and tracks your cash flow—all in one place. The visual dashboards are also super easy to use, allowing you to quickly see your finances and budgeting approach. While most zero based budgeting tools are built for teams or businesses, MoneyPatrol really shines for its ability to simplify finances for self employed individuals.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include transaction alerts to keep you informed about your spending. It also offers spending analysis to help you understand your financial habits. Additionally, the software’s cash flow tracking provides a clear view of your financial situation.
Integrations include Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, Citibank, Capital One, US Bank, Discover, American Express, TD Bank, and PNC.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed spending analysis
- Visual dashboards for easy tracking
- Comprehensive cash flow tracking
Cons:
- Limited to personal finance use
- Lacks advanced business features
Pigment is a business planning and forecasting tool aimed at enterprises seeking intuitive data visualization and planning capabilities. It serves finance teams by simplifying complex financial data and enhancing decision-making processes.
Why I picked Pigment: Pigment stands out for how easy it is to use—it’s super intuitive, so your team can jump right in without a big learning curve. You get real-time collaboration and interactive dashboards that make planning and analyzing feel a lot less overwhelming. Additionally, the software can help you build detailed financial models for each bank account with ease, making it a great tool for zero based budgeting.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include interactive dashboards that allow you to customize and visualize data clearly. The platform also provides scenario planning tools to explore various business outcomes.
Integrations include Salesforce, NetSuite, QuickBooks, Xero, SAP, Google Workspace, Microsoft Excel, Slack, and Workday.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time collaboration
- Interactive dashboards
- Supports scenario planning
Cons:
- Limited advanced analytics
- Requires initial setup time
Solver is a cloud-based corporate performance management tool designed for businesses looking to enhance their budgeting, reporting, and analytics capabilities. It serves finance teams by providing an advanced platform for managing financial processes.
Why I picked Solver: Solver gives your team cloud-based access from anywhere—no more being tied to one computer or office. It’s packed with helpful features like automated reports and detailed analytics, so you can make smarter decisions without digging through spreadsheets. The cloud setup also means your whole team can collaborate in real time, whether they’re remote or in the office. If you're looking for a modern, flexible tool to manage the zero based budgeting process more efficiently, Solver is a strong contender.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include driver-based budgeting, which lets you plan based on key business metrics rather than just historical data. You can also build customized workflows to streamline approvals and keep the budgeting process moving smoothly.
Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics 365, Sage, NetSuite, SAP, QuickBooks, Xero, Acumatica, Salesforce, Workday, and Google Workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cloud-based access
- Automated reporting features
- Flexible financial management
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise
- High learning curve for new users
Other Zero Based Budgeting Software
Here are some additional zero based budgeting software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Teamwork
For project-based financial tools
- Phocas
For data visualization capabilities
- Workday Adaptive Planning
For workforce planning
- Vena
For Excel-based planning
- DataRails
For financial analytics
- NetSuite Cloud Accounting
For ERP integration
- YNAB
For personal budgeting
Zero Based Budgeting Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best zero based budgeting software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like cost control and resource allocation. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Allocate budget based on needs
- Track expenses against budget
- Provide financial forecasting
- Offer reporting and analytics
- Support collaboration among team members
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Integration with external financial tools and budgeting apps
- Advanced data visualization options
- Customizable budget templates
- Real-time financial updates
- Scenario planning capabilities
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Ease of navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Availability of mobile access
- Customizable user settings
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Access to interactive product tours
- Use of onboarding templates
- Offer of webinars for new users
- Presence of chatbots for assistance
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- Availability of 24/7 support
- Responsiveness of support team
- Access to a comprehensive help center
- Availability of live chat support
- Quality of user documentation
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Comparison of pricing to competitors
- Availability of tiered pricing options
- Inclusion of essential features in base plans
- Flexibility in contract terms
- Discounts for annual subscriptions
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall user satisfaction ratings
- Feedback on ease of use
- Comments on customer support experience
- Reviews on feature effectiveness
- Reports on system reliability
How to Choose Zero Based Budgeting Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
| Scalability | Ensure the software can grow with your team. Consider if it supports increasing data volume and users as your business expands. |
| Integrations | Look for seamless integration with existing tools like accounting software, CRM, and ERP systems to streamline data flow and reduce manual entry. |
| Customizability | Check if the tool allows you to customize dashboards, reports, and workflows to fit your specific budgeting processes and preferences. |
| Ease of Use | Evaluate the user interface and navigation. Your team should be able to learn and use the software without extensive training. |
| Budget | Compare pricing plans and ensure they align with your financial constraints. Consider the total cost of ownership, including any hidden fees. |
| Security Safeguards | Confirm that the software offers robust security measures like data encryption and user access controls to protect sensitive financial information. |
| Support | Assess the availability and quality of customer support, including live chat, phone support, and online resources, to assist your team when needed. |
| Reporting | Look for advanced reporting capabilities that allow you to generate detailed financial reports and provide insights into budget performance. |
Trends in Zero Based Budgeting Software
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different zero based budgeting software vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- AI-Driven Insights: More tools are using AI to provide predictive analytics and insights to help teams anticipate budget needs and make informed decisions. For example, vendors like Drivetrain are now incorporating AI to enhance financial forecasting.
- Collaborative Budgeting: Tools are increasingly focusing on collaboration features, allowing multiple users to work on budgets simultaneously. This is vital for teams spread across different locations, ensuring everyone stays aligned on budgeting methods.
- Real-Time Data Updates: Users now expect real-time data to make agile budget adjustments. This trend supports dynamic business environments where quick financial decisions are necessary to achieve your savings goals.
- Scenario Planning: More software is offering scenario planning to help teams visualize different financial outcomes. This feature allows businesses to prepare for various potential situations, enhancing strategic planning.
- User-Centric Design: There's a growing emphasis on intuitive interfaces that prioritize user experience, with vendors now focusing on making their tools more accessible and easier to use. In the end, this reduces the overall learning curve, empowers users, and boosts productivity.
What Is Zero Based Budgeting Software?
Zero based budgeting software is a tool designed to help businesses allocate their budget from scratch each period, ensuring every expense is justified. These tools are typically used by financial professionals and budget managers to gain better control over their finances and optimize spending.
Zero based budgeting software often comes with key features like AI-driven insights, real-time data updates, and scenario planning to help with accurate forecasting and decision-making. Overall, they offer businesses a structured way to manage finances and improve cost efficiency.
Features of Zero Based Budgeting Software
When selecting zero based budgeting software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Real-Time Data Updates: Provides immediate access to financial data for current accounts and emergency funds, enabling quick budget adjustments and informed decision-making.
- Scenario Planning: Allows users to visualize different financial outcomes, helping businesses prepare for various potential situations across spending categories.
- AI-Driven Insights: Offers predictive analytics to anticipate budget needs and enhance financial forecasting.
- Collaborative Budgeting: Enables multiple users to work on budgets simultaneously, ensuring team alignment and efficiency.
- Customizable Dashboards: Lets users tailor their interface to focus on the most relevant financial metrics and reports.
- Expense Tracking: Monitors spending against the budget to prevent overspending and identify cost-saving opportunities.
- Integration Capabilities: Connects with existing financial tools to streamline data flow and reduce manual entry.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simplifies navigation and reduces the learning curve, boosting productivity and user satisfaction.
- Automated Reporting: Generates detailed financial reports with minimal manual effort, saving time and reducing errors.
- Security Safeguards: Protects sensitive financial information through data encryption and access controls.
Benefits of Zero Based Budgeting Software
Implementing zero based budgeting software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved Cost Control: By allocating budgets from scratch, you ensure every expense is justified, preventing unnecessary spending.
- Enhanced Financial Insights: AI-driven analytics and real-time data updates provide valuable insights for better decision-making.
- Increased Collaboration: Collaborative budgeting features allow team members to work together, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
- Flexibility in Planning: Scenario planning helps you adapt to changing financial conditions by preparing for different outcomes.
- Time Savings: Automated reporting reduces the time spent on manual report generation, allowing your team to focus on strategic tasks.
- Customization for Needs: Customizable dashboards let you tailor your view to focus on the most relevant financial information.
- Data Security: Security safeguards protect your financial data, giving you peace of mind about sensitive information.
Costs and Pricing of Zero Based Budgeting Software
Selecting zero based budgeting software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in zero based budgeting software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Zero Based Budgeting Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0/user/month | Basic budgeting tools, limited reports, and basic support. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Personal budgeting, expense tracking, customizable dashboards, and email support. |
| Business Plan | $30-$60/user/month | Advanced reporting, collaboration tools, real-time updates, and chat support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $70-$150/user/month | Full customization, integration capabilities, AI-driven insights, and dedicated support. |
Zero Based Budgeting Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about zero based budgeting software:
What are the limitations of zero based budgeting?
zero based budgeting can be time-consuming as it requires starting from scratch each period. This process demands a lot of manpower to justify every expense. While it provides detailed control, the effort and resources needed can be challenging for some teams.
How effective is zero based budgeting?
zero based budgeting is effective for keeping expenses under control. By starting fresh each period, it ensures that all costs are necessary and justified. This approach gives managers more oversight, but requires diligence in maintaining and reviewing budgets regularly.
What does zero based budgeting require?
zero based budgeting requires a thorough justification of all expenses, both old and new. Unlike traditional methods, this approach involves scrutinizing recurring and new expenditures. Managers need to justify each cost, ensuring that only essential expenses are approved.
How does zero based budgeting software assist in budgeting?
zero based budgeting software simplifies the process by automating repetitive tasks and providing tools for justification and analysis. It helps users track expenses efficiently, ensuring that every dollar is accounted for. The software also offers insights and analytics for better decision-making.
Can zero based budgeting software integrate with other financial tools?
Yes, many zero based budgeting software solutions offer integration capabilities with existing financial tools. This allows for seamless data flow and reduces manual data entry, making the budgeting process more efficient and accurate for your team.
Is zero based budgeting suitable for all types of businesses?
While zero based budgeting offers detailed financial control, it may not be suitable for every business due to its time-intensive nature. It works best for organizations that need stringent budget oversight and have the resources to manage the detailed process.
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