Erin Lowell
Lead Educator at YNAB
Erin is a former choir teacher turned budgeting teacher, who manages the small but mighty team of educators at YNAB. She is always looking for ways to get people excited about budgeting, because budgeting actually is really exciting.
Erin started working at YNAB after using it to pay off the credit card debt she racked up during a long and unnerving period of home renovations on her old farmhouse. Over the course of her time at YNAB she’s taught over 100,000 people how to budget (which is roughly the size of the entire population of Green Bay, Wisconsin). She lives in Maine with a small collection of cats and a dog named Charlie. When the weather cooperates, she hikes the Appalachian Trail, and hopes to complete the entire trail someday. In the winter when the weather isn't so nice for hiking, she quilts for charity.
Erin’s favorite rule is Rule Three: Roll With the Punches, because she loves changing her mind.
Featured Articles
Minimizing the Stress of a Big Move
Life changes and, with it, priorities. Right now my priority is getting over this move. Here's how I reduced the financial stress of moving.
Can I Afford a Car? What the Calculators Won’t Tell You
Wondering how much car you can afford? Sure, you can use a calculator based on averages, but it doesn't tell you the whole story.
The No-Regrets Way to Spend Your Tax Refund
We asked YNABers—the pros at giving every dollar a job—how they plan to spend their tax refund money this year. Here's what they said ...
All articles by
Erin
You Can Do Big Things!
Ever feel like your money is always riding a unicycle on a high wire? Dive into Erin's practical tips to find your financial balance and tackle big goals with confidence.
Don't Let Two Worlds Collide
At YNAB, we teach you to only assign jobs to dollars that you have right now. Erin dives into one reason why that’s such an important principle!
There’s No Such Thing as Cutting Spending
Need a chiropractor for your money? Our sage teacher, Erin, guides you in making the critical shift from “restricted” to “aligned.”
YNAB Coaches: A Personal Trainer for Your Finances
Imagine having a personal trainer for your finances. Find a YNAB certified coach to help you level up your money management skills.
How to Use YNAB Focused Views
Sometimes you need to zoom in on what matters most to you! The Focused Views feature lets you customize the budget categories you see.
Emergency Fund 101: How To Save For a Rainy Day
You've probably heard about an emergency fund. But how much should you be saving? Do you actually need one? Let's cover Emergency Fund 101.
Cut Food Costs with Our Grocery Planner Templates
Grocery shopping on a budget is a challenge as prices continue to rise. Cut costs with tips, tricks and our free Grocery Planner templates.
College Students and Money: 6 Things You Should Know
College students and money can be a risky combination. Making smart financial decisions early on can set you up for a lifetime of success.
Cost Cutting With YNAB Reports
Achieving your financial goals often requires some sacrifices. Find out how budget reports can help you identify cost cutting opportunities.
4 Myths of Meal Planning—Busted
Meal planning doesn't have to be complex, tedious, or time-consuming. Check out the plan that saves a family of four $188/month in groceries.
How Much Should I Budget for Eating Out?
When you're trying to budget a reasonable amount for eating out, what's realistic? Here's a better framework for deciding.
How to Get a Month Ahead With Your Budget
How do you get a month ahead with your money and live on last month’s income? Here's how to break free from paycheck to paycheck stress.