Can I run the budget program on Simple Start or Essentials Quickbook plans? To see my budgets per category and if my expenses are under or over budget

Thanks for sharing your concern in the QuickBooks Community, @doc15.

For now, the option to create a budget is only available for QuickBooks Online Plus and Advanced subscriptions. 

I'd suggest upgrading your subscription to have this feature and help you plan your finances. Here's how:

1. Sign in to QuickBooks Online as a primary or company admin.
2. Select Settings ⚙ and click Subscriptions and billing.
3. Make sure your payment info is up to date.
4. In the QuickBooks Online section, select Upgrade your plan.
5. Review the available plans, then click Choose plan.
6. Follow the on-screen steps to upgrade your plan.

You can also check out our Pricing Page to see which subscription level is right for you.

If there's anything else you need help with concerning QuickBooks Online, please feel free to reach out again. Have a great day!

@doc15 

You may consider having a project management app to integrate with QBO Essentials. If you are only working solo, you can use the trial version for QB Desktop for free to have a simple budget program.