Create Your Own Budgeting App in ChatGPT or Claude

Sam’s Tips

Every time you build or change something, ask your AI to review the work for errors. Don't skip it.

Start with the fake demo data and test saving before you add real numbers.

Connect your bank only on Plaid's screen inside Finances. Never paste bank passwords, security codes or full account numbers into the chat.

It tracks your spending. It doesn't move money or pay bills.

What You’ll Need

• ChatGPT with Sites (Plus, Pro or a supported workspace), or Claude (saving your data needs Pro, Max, Team or Enterprise)

• To connect your bank in ChatGPT: the Finances plugin, which links through Plaid (US only, still rolling out)

• In Claude, or if your bank won't connect: a CSV download from your bank, or a third-party connector like PocketSmith or Tiller

• A few categories you want to track. You can change anything later just by asking.

Best With

ChatGPT Sites or Claude

Guided Prompt

How to use this prompt

Pick ChatGPT or Claude and paste its starting prompt.
Fill in the worksheet, then paste the main build prompt.
Have it review its own work for errors, then test it with fake numbers.
Check that it saves and stays private before any real numbers go in.
Connect your accounts with ChatGPT's Finances plugin and Plaid, or import a CSV from your bank.
Change anything by asking in plain words, and run the review again after every change.

Connection note

In ChatGPT, the Finances plugin connects your bank through Plaid. You don't set up Plaid yourself, and some smaller banks and credit unions may not connect, so a CSV is the backup. Claude doesn't have its own bank plugin, but third-party connectors like PocketSmith, Tiller and Era Context work with their own accounts. Setup details checked October 20, 2026. Features and access can change.

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The starting prompts for ChatGPT and Claude, the main build prompt and every follow-up prompt, each with a Copy button, are on the full page: Create Your Own Budgeting App.