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 ...

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Women in the Money Conference

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PACE: A Small Business Owner's Guide to Complete Cash Flow Clarity

All articles by

Erin

YNABing

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.

YNABing

YNAB Features

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.

Personal Finance

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.

Food

Templates

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

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.

YNABing

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.

Food

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.

Food

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.

YNABing

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.

Life

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.

Personal Finance

YNABing

YNABing When You’re Barely Getting By

Learning how to budget when you're broke is a daunting prospect. Gain control over your spending regardless of how much money you have.

Small Business

How to Set Up YNAB to Manage Your Business Finances

Every business needs a plan. Learn how to set YNAB up with helpful suggestions from a small business owner.