In adding a custom field, why is there no prompt to select the data type or create some sort of limitation as to what can be entered in the custom field?

I'm glad that you posted here in the Community, Rabbi.

I'm here to explain why sometimes the prompt to select data type isn't there. If the subscription is (QBO) Plus or Essentials, the ability to choose the data type and create limitations in the custom field isn't possible and only applicable in QuickBooks Online (QBO) Advanced.

Feel free to read these articles for more details:

• Add custom fields to sales forms and purchase orders in QuickBooks Online.
• Create and edit custom fields on QuickBooks Online Advanced.

However, if you've subscribed to QuickBooks Online Advanced and the data type option isn't there, this might be a browser-related issue. To fix this, we'll need to perform basic troubleshooting to determine if this is browser-related.

First is to access your QBO account via incognito mode to not store cache files that may cause unnecessary behavior when running web-based programs. Below are the shortcut keys you can use:

• Google Chrome: press Ctrl + Shift + N
• Mozilla Firefox: press Ctrl + Shift + P
• Microsoft Edge: press Ctrl + Shift + P
• Safari: press Command + Shift +N

After that, try adding a custom field and check if the data type field is now available. If this works, clear the cache of your regular browser to eliminate piled-up data. 

If the issue persists, you can use another supported browser or device. It might be that the current one you're using has a temporary error with the program.

To learn how to use custom fields in your reports on QBO Advanced, you can read this article: Use custom fields in reports in QuickBooks Online Advanced.

For additional questions about managing your custom field, don't hesitate to reply to this post. I'll be happy to help you keep safe and have a blissful week!