An estimate of income and expenditures for a period of time is known as a(n)?

A budget is a financial plan that outlines expected income and expenditures over a specified period, typically on a monthly or yearly basis. It serves as a tool for planning and controlling finances, enabling individuals or organizations to allocate resources effectively and prioritize spending. By estimating income, such as salary or revenue from sales, and detailing planned expenses like rent, utilities, and other costs, a budget helps in managing financial goals and ensuring that spending does not exceed income.

The other options, while related to financial management, do not accurately define the concept. A spreadsheet is a software tool used for organizing data, which may include budgets but is not a definition in itself. A forecast refers to a prediction or estimation about future financial performance, which may inform a budget but does not equate to the budget itself. Lastly, a balance sheet is a financial statement that provides a snapshot of assets, liabilities, and equity at a specific point in time, rather than projecting future income and expenses. Therefore, the proper term to describe an estimate of income and expenditures for a period of time is indeed a budget.