Auto-Categorization
Every transaction, sorted automatically.
FreeBudget categorizes your spending by merchant so you can skip the manual work and focus on your budget.
Stop sorting transactions by hand
Let FreeBudget handle the tedious work so you can focus on what matters.
Manually categorizing every transaction is one of the biggest reasons people give up on budgeting. It is repetitive, time-consuming, and feels like homework. FreeBudget eliminates that friction by automatically sorting your transactions the moment they arrive.
When a charge from Starbucks hits your account, FreeBudget knows it is a coffee shop. When your electric bill posts, it goes straight to "Utilities." When you fill up your tank, it is categorized as "Gas." This happens instantly and automatically for thousands of common merchants.
Of course, no automated system is perfect. That is why FreeBudget makes it easy to correct and customize. Re-categorize any transaction with a single click. Create custom rules so that specific merchants always go where you want them. The more you use it, the more accurate it becomes for your spending patterns.
You can also split transactions across multiple categories. Bought groceries and cleaning supplies in one trip? Split the transaction so each portion goes to the right bucket. Your budget stays accurate even when real life is messy.
Smart categorization that saves you time
Instant Classification
Every transaction that comes in through bank syncing is automatically assigned a category based on the merchant.
Custom Rules
Create your own rules to override default categories. If Costco should always be "Groceries" instead of "Shopping," set it once and forget it.
Unlimited Categories
Create as many custom categories as you need. Organize your spending the way that makes sense for your life.
Easy Re-categorization
Made a mistake or want to change a category? Re-categorize any transaction in a single click.
Split Transactions
Bought groceries and household items in one trip? Split a single transaction across multiple categories.
Works with All Methods
Auto-categorization works with bank-synced transactions, CSV imports, and even manual entries when you assign a merchant.
Frequently asked questions
How does auto-categorization work?
When a transaction comes in through bank syncing, FreeBudget reads the merchant name and automatically assigns it to the most relevant category. For example, a charge from Whole Foods would be categorized as "Groceries." You can change the category at any time or create custom rules to override the defaults.
Can I turn off auto-categorization?
You always have full control. If you prefer to categorize every transaction manually, you can do that. Most users find auto-categorization saves them significant time and only needs occasional corrections.
What if a transaction is categorized incorrectly?
Just re-categorize it with a single click. You can also create a custom rule so that all future transactions from that merchant go to the correct category automatically.
Does auto-categorization work with CSV imports?
Yes. When you import transactions via CSV, FreeBudget will attempt to categorize them based on the merchant or description field. You can also map CSV columns to categories during the import process.
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