hledger is lightweight, cross platform, multi-currency, double-entry accounting software. It lets you track money, investments, cryptocurrencies, invoices, time, inventory and more, in a safe, future-proof plain text data format with full version control and privacy.
README
hledger
Robust, intuitive plain text accounting
Welcome! This is a brief intro to hledger. For a more detailed version, see the home page: ****
hledger is lightweight, cross platform, multi-currency, double-entry accounting software.
It lets you track money, investments, cryptocurrencies, invoices, time, inventory and more,
in a safe, future-proof plain text data format with full version control and privacy.
hledger aims to help both computer experts and regular folks
gain clarity in their finances and time management.
Though the UIs are basic, hledger can model any accounting situation and provide precise, clear reports.
It is reliable, quick, and backed by the highly supportive Plain Text Accounting ecosystem.
Using it is an excellent way to learn double entry accounting.
Compared to other PTA apps,
hledger is actively maintained, with regular releases,
and a strong focus on being easy to use and practical for everyday accounting.
More features:
Installs easily on unix, mac or windows
Complete, built-in documentation in multiple formats, beginner videos, tutorials etc.
hledger is a lightweight, cross-platform accounting tool designed for double-entry bookkeeping in plain text. It enables users to track finances, investments, cryptocurrencies, invoices, time, and inventory with precision and privacy.
Key Features:
Multi-currency support for diverse financial tracking
Plain text data format ensuring future-proof and secure records
Cross-platform compatibility across Unix, macOS, and Windows
Multiple user interfaces including command-line (CLI), terminal UI (TUI), and web interface
Export capabilities to CSV, HTML, JSON, and SQL formats
High-speed processing with the ability to analyze 25k transactions per second
Accurate calculations up to 255 decimal places
Compatibility with other plain text accounting tools like Ledger CLI and Beancount
Audience & Benefit:
Ideal for both financial experts and everyday users seeking clarity in personal or business finances. hledger provides robust reporting, budgeting, and forecasting tools, making it easier to manage cashflow, prepare taxes, and maintain accurate financial records. Its simplicity and flexibility cater to a wide range of accounting needs, from tracking daily expenses to managing complex financial systems. Installation is straightforward via winget for seamless integration into your workflow.
track income and spending, sometimes with budgets
see time reports by day/week/month/project
track reimbursables, invoices and payments
predict cashflow and account balances
get accurate numbers for tax filing
research past events
Here's an example of the journal file format:
2022-01-01 opening balances as of this date
assets:bank:checking $1000
assets:bank:savings $2000
assets:cash $100
liabilities:creditcard $-50
equity:opening/closing balances
2022-01-15 market
expenses:food $50
assets:cash $-50
2022-02-01 GOODWORKS CORP
assets:bank:checking $1000
income:salary $-1000
After enjoying some personal or organisational success with hledger,
you might want to become one of them, to help support this work.
It's easy! Please see for details.
