Frequently asked questions

The questions people ask before and just after buying Pentos.

This page is the canonical FAQ. The short version on pentosbudget.com links here.

Which devices does Pentos run on?

iPhone, iOS 18 and later. There is no iPad version and no Mac version.

Is there a subscription?

No. Pentos is a one-time purchase with no subscription and no in-app purchases. Every feature is included, and future updates come with it.

Does it need an internet connection?

Never. Pentos makes no network connections at all, so it behaves exactly the same on a plane as it does at home.

Does it connect to my bank?

No, and it is not planned. You bring transactions in by importing a statement file, which your bank will give you in CSV, OFX, QFX, or QIF.

Refer to Import a bank statement.

Where is my data stored?

In a database on your iPhone, and nowhere else. Statement files you import are read on device and never leave it.

Refer to Privacy and where your data lives.

Can I use it on more than one device?

One iPhone at a time. You can move a budget to another iPhone with a backup file, which is a deliberate action you take rather than something that happens on its own.

Refer to Restore from a backup.

Can I get my data out?

Yes. Export a backup file that restores on any iPhone running Pentos, or plain CSV for a spreadsheet. It is your data and you can take it whenever you like.

Refer to Back up your budget.

What file types can I import?

CSV, OFX, QFX, and QIF. Pentos remembers each account’s column layout and flags duplicates before they land, so re-importing the same file is always safe.

Refer to Supported file formats.

Can I bring in data from another budgeting app?

Through a file, yes. Most budgeting apps will export your history as CSV, and that is the file to bring over.

With CSV, the first time you import into an account Pentos asks you to map the columns so it knows which one is the date, the payee, and the amount. OFX, QFX, and QIF name their own fields, so those need no mapping.

Pentos does not read another app’s own file format.

What happens if I delete the app?

Your data goes with it. Keep a backup file if you might come back, because there is no copy anywhere else to restore from.

Can I budget in more than one currency?

No. Each budget file uses one currency, set in Settings.

Is there a dark mode setting?

Pentos is dark throughout. There is no light theme.

How do I get help?

Write to support@pentosbudget.com. For a problem with a number, Troubleshooting lists the usual causes first.