Installation & setup
How do I install Big Picture Money?
Visit the get started page to join the beta or get notified at launch, then follow the installation guide when you receive access.
What is the passphrase for?
Your passphrase unlocks the encrypted local database. See unlocking the app and security and encryption for details.
Where is my data stored?
In a local encrypted file on your computer. You choose the location when you set up your data file.
Import & export
What file formats can I import?
CSV, QFX, and OFX are supported at launch. See the import file formats reference and guides for CSV and QFX/OFX.
Can I export my data?
Yes. Full export is always available. Your data is never locked in our cloud.
Can I migrate from another financial app?
In most cases, export from your current app to CSV, QFX, or OFX and import into Big Picture Money. See the import how-to guides in the documentation.
Plans and pricing
Do I need an account to use Big Picture Money?
Everyday use runs on your computer without a cloud account. Connected Services (coming soon) will require an account for Plaid sync provided by Big Picture Money, multi-device sync, and other hosted integrations. See pricing for details.
What does the software license include?
Local encrypted database, manual accounts, imports, rules, categories, reports, budgeting, net worth tracking, bring-your-own or local AI, user-subscribed SimpleFIN bank sync, and full export — all for $35 one-time. See the full list on the pricing page.
What will Connected Services add?
Is there a free trial?
No. The desktop app requires a valid license. Every purchase includes a 60-day money-back guarantee so you can evaluate with confidence after purchase.
What is the money-back guarantee?
Every purchase — Big Picture Money, Connected Services, and future add-ons — includes a 60-day money-back guarantee. Email support@bigpicture.money within 60 days if it is not right for you. See terms for details.
How do yearly edition upgrades work?
Upgrading to a newer yearly edition is optional and costs $25. Your license never expires — stay on the edition you bought forever. See upgrade your license.
Can I use Big Picture Money on multiple devices?
Each license supports up to 5 active devices. Manage activations on My Devices. Multi-device database sync (keeping one shared ledger across machines) is planned with Connected Services. Without that add-on, the database stays local to each desktop unless you export, back up, or move the file yourself.
Bank sync & mobile
How does bank synchronization work?
You can import from CSV, QFX, and OFX files, plus use automatic bank synchronization when you bring your own SimpleFIN subscription. Connected Services (coming soon) will include Plaid synchronization provided by Big Picture Money.
What is the mobile companion app?
A planned lightweight app for reviewing recent transactions, categorizing on the go, adding cash transactions, and checking budget status. It will supplement the desktop app — not replace it — available when multi-device sync ships with Connected Services.
AI & privacy
Does AI send my financial data to the cloud?
AI is off by default. Only if you configure a cloud AI provider does data leave your machine. You can use local models (Ollama) instead, or leave AI off. A managed AI path is planned as part of Connected Services. See privacy and how AI uses your data.
Does AI provide investment or tax advice?
No. AI helps with bookkeeping tasks like categorization, cleanup, and anomaly detection. It does not provide investment or tax advice.
Can I opt out of error and performance reporting?
Yes. Anonymous reporting is optional and can be disabled. See privacy.