How do I install Expenselm?

Expenselm is a local plugin. Install it using PyPI package: expenselm-mcp-server and add the generated configuration snippet to your AI app's MCP config file. Then restart your AI app.

Is Expenselm safe to use?

Expenselm was flagged by MCP Marketplace's security scan, scoring 4.5/10 (high risk). It has 4 high or critical findings to review. Review the security report on this page carefully before installing it.

What credentials does Expenselm need?

Expenselm requires the following credentials or environment variables: EXPENSELM_API_KEY. You can find setup instructions on the server detail page.

What AI apps work with Expenselm?

Expenselm uses the Model Context Protocol (MCP) and works with any MCP-compatible AI app, including Claude, ChatGPT / Codex, Gemini, Copilot, Cursor, and more.

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Expenselm MCP Server

by clarenceh

FinanceUse Caution4.5Local

Free

An MCP server that provides access to your expense data on ExpenseLM.

About

An MCP server that provides access to your expense data on ExpenseLM.

Security Report

4.5

Use Caution4.5High Risk

Valid MCP server (0 strong, 4 medium validity signals). 5 known CVEs in dependencies (1 critical, 3 high severity) Package registry verified. Imported from the Official MCP Registry.

4 files analyzed · 6 issues found

Security scores are indicators to help you make informed decisions, not guarantees. Always review permissions before connecting any MCP server.

What You'll Need

Set these up before or after installing:

Your ExpenseLM API keyRequired

Environment variable: EXPENSELM_API_KEY

How to Install

Add this to your MCP configuration file:

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "io-github-clarenceh-expenselm-mcp-server": {
      "env": {
        "EXPENSELM_API_KEY": "your-expenselm-api-key-here"
      },
      "args": [
        "expenselm-mcp-server"
      ],
      "command": "uvx"
    }
  }
}

Documentation

View on GitHub

From the project's GitHub README.

ExpenseLM MCP Server

Introduction

MCP server for ExpenseLM.

ExpenseLM is an easy to use, GenAI powered Expense Management application. From expense recording to expense insights and advice, ExpenseLM puts you in control of your money like never before. MCP server enables access to your expense data with your favorite AI Agent.

mcp-name: io.github.clarenceh/expenselm-mcp-server

Installation

Prerequisites

uv
Python 3.9+
ExpenseLM API key (Instructions)

Setup MCP Client

Claude Desktop (Mac)

Add the following MCP server in your Claude Desktop configuration.

Config file (create if not exists): ~/Library/Application Support/Claude/claude_desktop_config.json

Add the following into your config file (replace the value of EXPENSELM_API_KEY with your own key).

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "expenselm": {
      "command": "uvx",
      "args": [
        "expenselm-mcp-server"
      ],
      "env": {
        "EXPENSELM_API_KEY": "Replace with your ExpenseLM API Key",
        "MCP_TIMEOUT": "200000"
      }
    }
  }
}

Claude Desktop (Windows)

Add the following MCP server in your Claude Desktop configuration.

Config file (create if not exists): %AppData%\Claude\claude_desktop_config.json (e.g. C:\Users[YourUsername]\AppData\Roaming\Claude\claude_desktop_config.json)

Add the following into your config file (replace the value of EXPENSELM_API_KEY with your own key).

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "expenselm": {
      "command": "uv",
      "args": [
        "tool",
        "run",
        "expenselm-mcp-server"
      ],
      "env": {
        "EXPENSELM_API_KEY": "Replace with your ExpenseLM API Key",
        "MCP_TIMEOUT": "200000"
      }
    }
  }
}

Perplexity Desktop (Mac)

In Perplexity Desktop for Mac, navigate to "Settings" -> "Connectors". Click "Add Connector".
Enter ExpenseLM MCP Server configuration like the below screenshot. Replace the environment variable "EXPENSELM_API_KEY" with your own key.

Perplexity setup