> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://smartbooks.gitbook.io/smartbooks-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://smartbooks.gitbook.io/smartbooks-docs/faq/how-do-i-create-a-consolidated-budget.md).

# How do I create a consolidated budget?

In Smartbooks, **consolidated budgets are built from entity-level budgets**. Budgets must first be created at the individual entity level.

Once budgets are entered for each entity, Smartbooks automatically:

* Rolls them up per general ledger account or subfolder
* Aggregates the values into the consolidated view

The consolidated budget is then displayed in reports at group level.

### What if I only want to use a consolidated budget?

If you do not require entity-level budgeting, we recommend entering the full consolidated budget in **one of the underlying entities**.

Smartbooks will still roll up the budget correctly to the consolidation level, allowing you to work with a single consolidated budget while maintaining consistency in reporting.

This approach ensures:

* Consistent roll-up logic between actuals and budgets
* Reliable consolidated reporting
* Flexibility between entity-level and consolidated-level planning