Notch questions, answered.
Everything people ask before they start: what it costs, why it never links to your bank, where your data lives, and how the day-by-day cash flow forecast works.
Frequently asked questions
Is Notch free to use?
Yes. The local version of Notch is completely free — track bills, assign accounts, and plan your cash flow in the browser with no sign-up required during the preview. There is nothing to install and no credit card to enter.
Does Notch connect to my bank?
No. Notch is built for manual bill tracking and cash flow forecasting, so it never links to a bank account or uses an aggregator. You enter your bills and balances yourself, which keeps your financial data in your own hands.
Where is my data stored?
Locally in your browser. The free version of Notch works entirely on your own device, so your records never leave it. Notch Pro, which adds optional encrypted cross-device sync, is coming soon.
What is cash flow forecasting?
Cash flow forecasting shows your expected balance day by day based on scheduled income and upcoming bills, so you can see what's due and what's left before it happens. It answers the question “will I have enough on the day this bill hits?” rather than only showing what already cleared.
Can I use Notch with a partner or household?
The free local version works well for planning a household budget on a single device — you can set up shared bills, multiple accounts, and one combined forecast. Shared household access with cross-device sync (so both partners see the same bills and balances on their own devices) is on the roadmap.
Does Notch work offline?
Yes. Because everything runs in your browser without bank linking, Notch keeps working offline once it has loaded. Your bills, accounts, and forecast stay available without a connection.
Can I export my data?
Yes. Your data is yours — you can export it at any time so you are never locked in.
Do I need to create an account?
No account is required to use the free local version during the preview. Sign-in is switched off for the moment while our account system moves to a new home. It will return before Notch Pro sync needs it, and you can plan your whole budget without it.
Is Notch an app I download from the App Store?
No. Notch is a web app that runs at notch.smoothgrain.app — open it in any modern browser, on desktop or mobile, with nothing to install. There is no App Store or Play Store download.
How much will Notch Pro cost?
Notch Pro (encrypted cross-device sync and account recovery) has not shipped yet, so there is no published price. It is labeled “Soon.” The local version stays free.
Still curious? Try it in your browser.
Your data stays local. No account required during the preview.