Expense Tracker — Google Sheets Template
One-Minute Summary
This Google Sheets expense tracker lets you log daily spending by date, category, description, and amount. Filter by category. Sum by month. Make a copy. Log as you spend or batch at day's end. Works on phone or desktop. This is an organizational tool — it is not financial advice.
Preview & Access
Make a Copy (Google Sheets)How to Access
- Click the button above
- Sign in to Google (free)
- The template opens in your Drive
- Edit, share, or download as needed
What’s in this template
Columns for date, category, description, amount. Add a row per transaction. Filter by category. Sum by month. Simple structure. Flexible. Use one sheet for all months or duplicate tabs per month.
Key features and use cases
Consistent categories: Data validation dropdown keeps entries clean. No “groceries” vs. “Grocery” vs. “food” — one choice, consistent totals.
Real-time totals: Formulas sum by category. Change a number, totals update. Instant view of spending by category.
Works with Budget Planner: Export category totals or manually transfer to your budget. Tracker provides data; budget provides the plan.
How to customize
Add a Notes column: For items that need context. “Business expense” or “Reimbursable.”
Split transactions: One purchase, multiple categories? Add two rows — e.g., Target $80 groceries, $20 household. Split the amount.
Conditional formatting: Highlight categories over budget. Red when grocery total exceeds $500, etc. Visual alert.
Need a Printable Version?
Prefer pen and paper? Grab the printable PDF version — designed for U.S. Letter paper.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this free?
Yes. Make a copy. Free Google account. No signup. No watermark.
Can I use it on my phone?
Yes. Google Sheets app. Add a row when you spend. Quick and easy. Some people find mobile logging increases compliance.
How do I add categories?
Edit the data validation list. Data → Data validation → Edit. Add new category names. All existing and new rows can use them.
What if I forget to log?
Check your bank or card statement weekly. Add missed transactions. Imperfect data is still useful. Don't abandon the tracker over a few gaps.
Can I share with my partner?
Yes. Share the sheet. Both can add transactions. One shared expense log. Useful for household spending visibility.