Description: The budgeting cycle is the annual process of preparing and approving the budget, which involves planning, executing, and evaluating an organization’s financial resources. This cycle is fundamental for financial management, as it allows companies and organizations to set goals and allocate resources efficiently. In the context of financial management and cost optimization, the budgeting cycle becomes a key tool for controlling and managing expenses associated with various services and operations. Through a well-defined budgeting cycle, organizations can forecast their resource needs, adjust their spending, and optimize service usage, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives. The main characteristics of the budgeting cycle include forecasting, resource allocation, expense tracking, and results review. This process not only helps maintain the financial health of the organization but also allows for greater transparency and accountability in cost management, which is especially critical in environments where expenses can escalate quickly if not properly controlled.