# Creating an Expense
> Source: https://development.fuze-store.com/docs/store/expenses/creating-an-expense

# Creating an Expense

You can record a new expense in just a few steps. Each entry captures the amount, category, date, and an optional description and receipt. A receipt can be a photo **or** a PDF document.

![The Create Expense form in the Fuze Store app showing the Receipts picker, Amount, Category, Date, and Description fields](/docs/store/expenses/create-expense-form.png)

## Step-by-Step Guide

1. Open the sidebar menu and go to **Expenses**.
2. Press the **Add Expense** button.
3. Fill in the expense details (see fields below).
4. Press **Save** to record the expense.

Your new expense appears in the expense list immediately.

## Expense Fields

| Field           | Required | Description                             | Example                   |
| --------------- | -------- | --------------------------------------- | ------------------------- |
| **Amount**      | Yes      | The total cost of the expense           | 1,500                     |
| **Category**    | Yes      | The type of expense                     | Supplies                  |
| **Date**        | Yes      | When the expense occurred               | 2026-03-22                |
| **Description** | No       | A brief note about the expense          | Monthly cleaning supplies |
| **Receipt**     | No       | A photo or PDF of the receipt           | receipt.jpg / invoice.pdf |

Managers who can approve expenses also see a **Status** field on the form, letting them record an expense as already approved. Everyone else's expenses start as **Pending** and wait for approval.

## Entering the Amount

Enter the exact amount you spent. Use the number keypad or type the value directly. The currency matches your store's configured currency.

## Selecting a Category

Choose the category that best matches the expense. Categories help you organize and filter expenses later. If none of the existing categories fit, you can [create a custom category](/docs/store/expenses/managing-categories) under **Configurations → Expense Categories**.

## Adding a Description

The description field is optional but helpful. Use it to note what the expense was for. Keep descriptions short and specific. For example, "Paper bags for takeout orders" is more useful than "Supplies."

## Attaching a Receipt

You can attach receipts for record-keeping — either a photo or a PDF document.

1. Press **Pick Images** to choose or capture a photo (JPG, JPEG, PNG, or GIF).
2. Or press **Pick Documents** to attach a PDF.
3. Each file must be under 2 MB. The receipt saves with the expense entry.

Attaching receipts helps you keep proof of purchases. This is useful for accounting and tax purposes.

## Setting the Date

The date defaults to today. You can change it to record an expense from a previous date. This is useful when logging expenses after the fact.

## Tips

- **Record expenses promptly.** Log expenses as they happen to avoid forgetting.
- **Be specific in descriptions.** Clear notes save time when reviewing later.
- **Always attach receipts.** Digital receipts are easier to find than paper ones.
- **Double-check the amount.** Make sure the number matches your receipt.

## Related Guides

- [Expense Tracking Overview](/docs/store/expenses/overview)
- [Managing Expense Categories](/docs/store/expenses/managing-categories)
- [Managing Expenses](/docs/store/expenses/managing-expenses)
- [Approving Expenses](/docs/store/expenses/approving-expenses)
