Hello there, @lynnh.

This must be a challenging experience for you. But I'm here to ensure that you'll be able to set up a budget in QuickBooks Online.

In the meantime, let's perform some troubleshooting steps that can help us isolate this. Let's try logging into your QuickBooks account using a private browser. There are times that the browser is full of frequently accessed page resources, thus causing unusual responses. 

To use a private browser, here's how: 

• Google Chrome: Ctrl + Shift + N
• Mozilla Firefox: Ctrl + Shift + P
• Internet Explorer: Ctrl + Shift + P
• Safari: Command + Shift + N

If it works, return to your default browser and perform clear cache to remove temporary internet files on your computer.

If the issue persists, I recommend reaching out to our Customer Care Support. This way, they can investigate this issue further why you can't set up a budget.

To reach them, click Help (question mark icon) at the top right, then hit Contact us. 

Please keep in touch with us here in the Community should you need any further assistance. We're always here to help.