Do You Recommend Quicken?

[bluecountry]

I've been wanting to get software to help organize personal finances. I've looked into quicken 2008 deluxe/premier, but wanted to ask before purchasing if you have any recommendation or first hand experience? I've read some very mixed reviews....many of whom claim the program has bugs...is not user friendly...and a pain. What's your take...and for a newbie do you recommend a manual?
Thanks!

[Aegis]

I've not had experience with Quicken for a long time.  The version I've used in the past probably didn't have all the "bells and whistles" of this year's version. 

Here's an alternative you might want to try:  Money Manager EX at

http://www.thezeal.com/software/index.php?Money_Manager_Ex

I haven't used all its features, so I don't know if it does check printing and all the cool stuff, but it is ONE example (there are many more!) of financial software that does a good job, and is open-source and free!

[ale52]

I've used Quickbooks Pro 2004 for several years after dumping M$ Money and found it much more intuitive.

My wife was using M$ Money and it kept goofing up on her so I went to eBay and got Quicken 2005 for $5.  Works like a charm.

It will take some getting used to but for the money saved (remember $5) and a little time spent learning the program Quicken will do the job.

BTW - if it's just home finances you want to do then I'd recommend doing the eBay thing and getting an earlier version for a MUCH lesser price as it will do all the things you need.  Remember,  I'm still using QBPro 2004 and I run my business off of it.

Alan <>< 

[bluecountry]

I suppose then all those horror stories of ghosts were incorrect?
Would I need a manual or is it not hard to pick up?

[ale52]

You're going to find "horror stories" about EVERYTHING.  The help files should do.

Alan <>< 

[bluecountry]

Thanks...does a novice need a manual or is not that hard to pick up?

[Aegis]

My experience with Quicken was always that it was pretty intuitive.  I believe you'll also find built-in tutorials to help you.