When Transactions Sync

Understand how often OneBudget syncs with your bank and why timing varies

2 min readLast updated: 2026-01-11

How Often Does OneBudget Sync?

OneBudget syncs your transactions automatically based on your subscription:

  • Free users: Every 12 hours (twice daily)
  • Premium users: Every 4 hours (six times daily) plus manual sync anytime

However, when transactions appear in OneBudget depends on several factors outside our control.

The Sync Process

Here's what happens when you make a purchase:

  1. You swipe your card — Transaction created at merchant
  2. Merchant sends to processor — Usually within hours
  3. Processor sends to bank — May take 1-2 days
  4. Bank makes data available — Through their systems
  5. Plaid retrieves data — During scheduled syncs
  6. OneBudget displays it — On your next app open

Most transactions appear within 24-48 hours.

Why Some Transactions Are Delayed

Pending vs. Posted

Banks often show "pending" transactions before they're final. Pending transactions:

  • May have a different amount (like restaurant tips)
  • Can be modified or canceled
  • Sometimes disappear before posting

OneBudget shows pending transactions when available, but marks them clearly.

Bank Data Availability

Some banks update their data more frequently than others:

  • Major banks (Chase, Bank of America) — Often same-day
  • Credit unions — May take 1-2 days
  • Smaller banks — Varies widely

This isn't something OneBudget can control—it depends on your bank's systems.

Weekend and Holiday Delays

Banks process transactions differently on weekends:

  • Purchases still go through
  • But data exports may pause until Monday
  • Holiday weekends can add extra delays

Manual Refresh (Premium)

Premium users can manually sync anytime for the latest transactions:

  1. Open OneBudget
  2. Pull down on the main screen
  3. Wait for the refresh to complete

Note: A manual refresh won't make transactions appear faster if your bank hasn't made them available yet.

Real-Time Notifications

Some transactions trigger faster updates:

  • Direct deposits (income)
  • Large purchases over a certain threshold
  • Transactions at certain merchants

OneBudget will notify you when significant transactions are detected.

Tips for Managing Sync Timing

  1. Don't rely on instant updates — Plan for 24-48 hour delays
  2. Check your bank app for real-time balances if needed
  3. Use pending transactions as early indicators
  4. Refresh before making decisions about large purchases

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