MICROSOFT MONEY

Although Microsoft Money can be purchased as a stand-alone solution for around $80, it is also a part of the Office Suite. Obviously, for business owners and individuals, knowing the current financial picture is crucial. With a tough economy, keeping track of money can be challenging but with MS Money, you have a great solution to help you do just that and more. Over the years, Microsoft Money has changed in a number of ways, all improvements.

Considered one of the top financial managers, two of the primary changes to this program relate to the areas of tax planning and paying bills. Today, you can use this program to assist with online tax preparation, paying bills online, and much more. Keep in mind that MS Money comes in Standard, Premium, and Deluxe options. With Deluxe, you would enjoy most of the same features as provided in Standard but with a number of extended services. For some people, the Standard version of Microsoft Money is all that is needed but for corporations, the Deluxe version is probably the better choice, although Premium is also excellent.

You will find that MS Money is highly competent when it comes to tracking your money. Whether using the bill paying, accounting, taxes, planning, or investing features, they will all provide you with an easy-to-use tool with comprehensive reporting. Navigation in the program is also easy with customizable pull-down task lists.

With Microsoft Money, accounts can be set up and bills paid, either manually or electronically. This 2006 version also offers a new and improved Alert Center that provides financial breaking news to your desktop, email, or cell phone, as defined by you, from Kiplinger's, CNBC, and Reuters. Additional tools to help you analyze and maximize investments are also a beneficial feature. With this, you can estimate capital gains and even manage your 401K account.

The nice thing about using MS Money is that in addition to gaining better control over your daily finances and financial decisions, the program also walks you through the creation of a lifetime financial plan. Using the built-in wizard, you can plan your future, especially retirement with confidence. For the income aspect of the program, you will appreciate the tax estimator, deduction finder, numerous flexible reports, and an Advisor FYI that provides the user with personalized advice throughout the program.

Finally, with the Premium and Deluxe versions of Microsoft Money 2006, the Credit Center can keep track of your debt accounts, helping you manage credit more effectively. Special features include a debt-reduction planner, debt accounts table, and several resources to help you manage outstanding debt. With everything MS Money has to offer, finding a better financial system would be hard.