Sync vs manual import
Both paths bring external transactions into Big Picture Money. Bank sync imports new rows automatically; file import uses a staging review step before anything hits your register.
Bank sync (SimpleFIN or Plaid)
Best when you want regular updates without downloading files, and your institution works with your plan's sync provider. Bring your own SimpleFIN Bridge subscription. Connected Services (coming soon) will include Plaid integration provided by Big Picture Money.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Scheduled or one-click Sync all mapped accounts | Requires SimpleFIN Bridge setup, or Connected Services for Plaid (coming soon) |
| No CSV column mapping | SimpleFIN rate limits apply (~24 fetches per day on Bridge) |
| Provider credentials stay out of your data file | Coverage depends on the provider and institution |
| Good for ongoing checking/credit card activity | Needs the app running for scheduled sync (for now) |
| New transactions land in the register immediately | Less gatekeeping than file import — use Bank sync — recent to review after the fact |
Manual import (CSV, QFX, OFX)
Best when you prefer full control, your bank does not support your sync provider, or you import historical statements in bulk.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Works with any bank that exports files | You download and pick the file each time |
| No third-party connection | CSV may need column mapping on first import |
| No daily fetch limits | No automatic daily update |
| Staging review before commit | Extra step compared to bank sync |
Privacy and control
- SimpleFIN sync sends nothing to Big Picture servers — the desktop app talks directly to SimpleFIN using a token you provide
- Plaid sync on Connected Services uses the Plaid integration provided through your Big Picture Money account
- Import reads files only from your computer
- File import stages transactions for review; bank sync imports automatically but you can filter and edit synced rows anytime
Can I use both?
Yes. Many people sync a checking account for daily activity and import CSV archives for old years or accounts their sync provider does not cover. Duplicate detection is shared — see How bank sync works.