The Best Cash Envelope Wallet Systems

Best Cash Envelope Wallet Systems

I firmly believe that moving to a cash envelope system of cash flow planning (budgeting) is one of the smartest financial moves you can make. Once you get the general idea of how it works and decide to make the change, you will need to set up a cash envelope system.

My rule for starting any system is “simplest is best.” Start simple with using plain old small mailing envelopes, then move up when:

1. You’ve proven that you can live on a cash envelope system and justify the cost.
2. It will make your life easier.

After living on cash envelopes for over twelve years, here are my criteria when selecting a cash envelope wallet system:

1. The wallet needs to accommodate 3-6 cash categories.
2. The wallet needs to accommodate all of my “wallet-y” items, including my various cards and coins. The coin storage is really important as many options on etsy don’t have a place for change.
3. The wallet needs to be relatively thin. This eliminates most of the 100% handmade cloth options. You DO NOT need the individual envelopes/slots to zip. This adds unnecessary bulk. The wallet just needs some overall closure device to make sure the cash doesn’t fall out.
4. The wallet needs to be separate and not attached to a larger purse/handbag.
5. The wallet needs to be somewhat affordable (under $100).

Here are the options that fit most, if not all of my cash envelope wallet criteria:

The Dave Ramsey Envelope Systems is my wallet standard and it’s relatively affordable (under $25). I obviously like that it is designed specifically to work with cash envelopes. I used the Deluxe Envelope System for years and these things are sturdy, lasting for quite a long time. I did have to reinforce the sides of the paper envelopes with tape after six months or so, but that’s not a big deal.

You can purchase the red wallet directly from Amazon and skip the shipping charge if you have Prime!

The SavvyCents Wallet on Amazon is nice and also affordable. This wallet comes in a bunch of patterns. I’ve actually been using this exact wallet for well over a year and I really, really like it. It still looks new and I pack that thing FULL of stuff. 

It has room for all of your cards and coins plus a separate zipped section for your cash categories. I like that you can open part of the wallet without showing the world that you’re carrying a bunch of cash. I also like that the cash stores in slots instead of envelopes with flaps. This makes the cash more accessible and you’re not dealing with paper.

If you just want someone to tell you which wallet to buy, start with this one.

I really like the look of this RFID Blocking Wallet. It’s not a technical “cash envelope system wallet” but there is a larger slot that you can stick envelopes into. The wallet comes in a bunch of colors and looks like it holds a LOT of stuff, including your cell phone. I also like that it’s a wristlet.

Make sure you look at this wallet if you would like more color options. My bet is it’s made by the same manufacturer and they’re just selling under a different name.

All of these clutches ship for FREE with Amazon Prime and you can return it if you don’t like it!

This Eurlove wallet option is CHEAP (like under $15 shipped with Prime on Amazon). If you already have paper envelopes, it looks like the large opening is wide enough to hold a bunch. I love that there are a couple of pink options. Reviews are pretty good for the price.

If you already have a wallet that you love and just need a simple envelope system, this Cash Envelope Book by Jenny Lynn Paper ($18) is perfect. This is also for envelopes that are stored at home.

The Envelope System Wallet Clutch by Mr and Mrs Wallet ($110) breaks some of my rules (zippers + costs a lot + attaches to a larger purse system), but I really like that it has a place for your cell phone and it a great option for those of you who don’t need to carry a suitcase everyday.

This Leather Cash Envelope Wallet by Yesterday’s November ($55) is cool-mo-dee. It has seven sections for cash and you can upgrade to have a set of card slots and/or coin storage ($10 extra) added.

Use the code FRUGALLIVING at checkout and get FREE U.S. shipping when you buy the wallet + coin storage upgrade.

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Dave Ramsey’s The Total Money Makeover is SUCH an excellent resource for those wanting to get their budget on track. For those of us who are already going through the process, it’s also worth rereading on occasion if you lose a bit of your motivation or inspiration for WHY you are living the way you are.

Be sure to check your local library as well, but this is definitely one that is worth owning.

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