There is an error with the reported dashboard sales figures. The dashboard figure is substantially different than the actual sales figure. Please clarify?

Hi there, Richard.

In QuickBooks, the dashboard only shows Invoices and Sales Receipts to calculate the total sales amount. Other sales transactions such as Journal Entries for sales accounts, sales tax, and income transactions like bank deposits are not displayed.

Also, it's worth noting that cash and accrual accounting methods report income and expenses differently. Once changed, the accounts and balances in your reports might show up differently. You may want to check out this article for more information: Choose between cash and accrual accounting methods in QuickBooks Online.

Additionally, the data being shown there is based on the specified period. Let's double-check the amount shown on your sales graph. You'll need to make sure you filter the report dates correctly by clicking the This month drop-down arrow. 

Once done, we can run the Sales by Customer Summary report to check the details of your Sales graph. Here's how you can open the report:

1. Go to the Reports menu.
2. In the Find report by name section, enter Sales by Customer Summary. 
3. Be sure to filter the Report period accurately.
4. When done, hit Run report.

Furthermore, should you need to personalize the data shown on your sales reports and filter to only display the information that matters the most to you, feel free to read through this article: Customize reports in QuickBooks Online.

I want to ensure that all of your concerns are addressed properly. Should you need any more help managing your sales in QuickBooks Online, you can always ask your question here by hitting the Reply button or starting a new thread. Stay safe