Thanks for joining the thread, @garybrown.

Let me provide you with some information about the estimate in QuickBooks Online. When creating an estimate, we can copy it to a purchase order. 
 

First, we need to make sure that the purchase order feature is turned on. 

Here's how:

1. Go to Settings, then select Account and settings.

2. Go to Expenses.

3. Select the pencil icon in the Purchase orders section.

4. Turn on the Use purchase orders switch.

5. Select Save, then Done.
 

Once done, we need to create an estimate and then copy it to a purchase order. I'll guide you how:

1. Select + New.

2. Select Estimate.

3. Enter customer and product or service details. Then select Save.

4. A dropdown choice of Create invoice or Copy to purchase order will appear next to the amount.


 

5. Select Copy to purchase order.

6. Select a Vendor.

7. In the Item details section, select the same customer used on the purchase order.

8. Select Save and close.

Only items marked as purchased from vendors get copied over to purchase orders. You can verify that your products or services are marked accordingly by following these steps:

1. Go to the Gear icon,  then select Products and services.

2. Find the product or service. Then select Edit.

3. In the Purchasing information section, select the I purchase this product/service from a vendor checkbox.

4. Select Save and close.
 

Please refer to this article for more information: Copy an estimate to a purchase order. 
 

You may also want to learn how to convert an estimate into an invoice in QuickBooks Online. This linked both estimate and invoice, which keeps your books accurate. 
 

Let me know if you have further questions about estimates by clicking the REPLY button below. I'm always around to help you out. Keep safe and have a good one!