Welcome to QuickBooks, cashkip3000-aol-.
The currency symbol that'll show up beside the total amount depends on the version you are using. The reason you see the letter "R" is because you've signed up for QuickBooks Online (QBO) South Africa.
You'll want to use the QBO US version if you want the dollar sign to show instead of the currency symbol.
To get started with QuickBooks, you'll want to check out this link for more information: Getting Started With QuickBooks Online.
Please let us know if you need anything else. I'd be glad to help.