Quick entry workflows - solving YNAB’s biggest advantage:
The Problem:
YNAB’s mobile app makes entry instant. Beancount requires more steps.
Solution 1: Voice-to-text notes
iPhone/Android voice note:
"Starbucks 5.47 coffee"
"Target 124.32 split: groceries 87, household 37.32"
"Gas station 45 transportation"
Saturday morning: convert to Beancount
Solution 2: Simple note template
Keep a note with this format:
2024-01-15 | Starbucks | 5.47 | Dining
2024-01-15 | Target | 124.32 | Groceries/Household
2024-01-16 | Gas | 45.00 | Transportation
Python script converts to Beancount:
#!/usr/bin/env python3
import sys
for line in sys.stdin:
date, payee, amount, category = line.strip().split('|')
print(f'{date.strip()} * "{payee.strip()}"')
print(f' Assets:Checking -{amount.strip()} USD')
print(f' Expenses:{category.strip()}')
print()
Solution 3: SMS to Beancount
Send text to yourself → Python script processes:
# Watches inbox, parses texts like:
# "Spent $5.47 at Starbucks for coffee"
# Generates: 2024-01-15 * "Starbucks" Expenses:Dining
Solution 4: Fava mobile + Tailscale
- Run Fava on home computer
- Use Tailscale for secure remote access
- Access Fava via mobile browser anywhere
- Enter transactions directly
My workflow:
- Quick notes during week (Apple Notes)
- 10 minutes Saturday morning to process
- Better financial awareness than real-time entry!
Reality: YNAB’s instant entry is nice but not essential for most people.