What is a budget?

A budget is fundamentally described as a financial plan that estimates future revenues and expenses. This planning tool is vital for organizations and individuals alike, as it helps establish financial goals, allocate resources effectively, and manage cash flow. By projecting future income and expenditures, a budget allows businesses to plan for growth, anticipate challenges, and set financial priorities. It serves as a baseline against which actual financial performance can be measured, helping to both guide decision-making and inform strategic planning. This forward-looking aspect distinguishes a budget from other financial documents that focus on historical data or specific account summaries.