---
title: Converting from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online
description: Switching from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online? This step-by-step guide shows Utah business owners how to prepare, back up, and migrate their QuickBooks data safely. Learn what transfers, troubleshoot common issues, and see why QuickBooks Online is the smarter choice.
image: https://blog.cmp.cpa/hubfs/Converting%20from%20QuickBooks%20Desktop%20to%20QuickBooks%20Online2.jpg
---
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# Converting from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online
Published September 24, 2025 By [Becca Park](https://blog.cmp.cpa/author/becca-park)
Converting from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online
16:14
Switching from [QuickBooks Desktop](https://quickbooks.intuit.com/desktop/) to [QuickBooks Online](https://quickbooks.intuit.com/global/login/) is easier than most business owners expect, because QuickBooks’ free built-in migration tool does most of the work for you. Update your Desktop software, back up your company file, follow the on-screen prompts to export your data into QuickBooks Online, and then review your reports to make sure everything came across correctly.
## Key Takeaways
- You’ll need QuickBooks Online Simple Start or higher, since Desktop data can’t be migrated into a Self-Employed plan.
- Save your Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss reports before you migrate, so you can compare them with QuickBooks Online afterward.
- Some custom templates, recurring transactions, payroll details and advanced Desktop features may need to be set up again after the move.
- Bank connections and other integrations don’t transfer, so plan to reconnect them in QuickBooks Online.
- Most migrations take less than an hour, though larger files can take several hours.
The transfer itself is quick. What takes more care is preparing your file beforehand and getting used to a new system afterward. Once you’re settled, you get the [benefits of QuickBooks Online](https://blog.cmp.cpa/advantages-of-quickbooks-online), including easier collaboration and access to your books from anywhere. This guide walks you through the whole process, with a preparation checklist, troubleshooting tips, and answers to the most common questions, so you can make the switch with confidence.
## Why Switch from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online?
QuickBooks Desktop has been a go-to accounting tool for many years, but today’s business needs are changing. More companies are looking for cloud-based solutions that make [bookkeeping easier](https://blog.cmp.cpa/bookkeeping-tips-small-business), faster, and more collaborative. That’s where QuickBooks Online comes in. With automatic updates, seamless integrations, and the ability to access your books from anywhere, it’s becoming the preferred choice for growing businesses.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you see why many business owners are making the switch:
| **QuickBooks Desktop** | **QuickBooks Online** |
| --- | --- |
| Installed on one computer or server; limited remote access | Cloud-based, access from anywhere on any device |
| Manual updates and backups are required | Automatic updates and cloud backups |
| Limited integrations and app connectivity | Integrates with hundreds of apps and tools |
| Best for single-user workflows | Ideal for multi-user collaboration and growing businesses |
| Requires additional fees for advanced features | Includes more features in the subscription |
| Data stored locally; risk of data loss if not backed up | Data securely stored in the cloud |
| Desktop 2024 and Enterprise 24.0 are Intuit’s final annual releases; new sales of Pro Plus, Premier Plus and Mac Plus ended after September 30, 2024 | Actively supported and updated with new features |
## Things to Know Before You Start
Before migrating your QuickBooks Desktop data to QuickBooks Online, it helps to know what to expect:
- **What transfers (and what doesn’t):** Most data from your QuickBooks Desktop company file will migrate, but some custom templates, recurring transactions, and payroll details may need to be re-entered.
- **Feature limitations:** Advanced features from QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, or Enterprise may not fully carry over; review QuickBooks Online’s supported features first.
- **Have your logins ready:** Gather the logins and passwords for your bank, credit card and other connected accounts, since you’ll need them to reconnect everything after the move.
The steps below will make your QuickBooks data migration smoother and help make your move to [cloud-based accounting software](https://blog.cmp.cpa/best-accounting-bookkeeping-software-for-small-business) stress-free.
Free guide · Ten pages
Both menu paths, side by side
Converting means relearning where everything lives. Our reference guide gives the Desktop and Online path for every daily function, so you are not hunting twice.
- Invoicing, sales receipts, bills, checks — both versions
- What each of the eleven item types does to your accounts
- What every balance sheet account actually tracks
- The four reports worth reviewing every month
- A five-minute month-end check
[Get the Free Guide](https://info.cmp.cpa/download-quickbooks-reference?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=inline_cta&utm_campaign=quickbooks-desktop-to-quickbooks-online&utm_content=quickbooks-guide-mid)
PDF · ten pages · no cost
## Step-by-Step Guide to Migrating from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online
Moving your data doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s a simple, step-by-step process to get your QuickBooks Desktop company file into QuickBooks Online smoothly.
### Step 1: Choose a QuickBooks Online Plan and Create Your Account
Before you migrate, take time to choose the QuickBooks Online plan that matches your business needs. QuickBooks offers four plans with different features and user limits:
| **Plan** | **Monthly Price** | **Users** | **Key Features** |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| **Simple Start** | $38 | 1 | Basic bookkeeping and invoicing |
| **Essentials** | $85 | 3 | Adds bill management and time tracking |
| **Plus** | $140 | 5 | Inventory tracking and project profitability tools |
| **Advanced** | $340 | 25 | Advanced reporting, automation, and custom roles |
These are U.S. regular monthly subscription prices before promotions and add-ons.
If you plan to convert from QuickBooks Desktop, make sure you choose Simple Start or higher; you can’t migrate data to a Self-Employed plan. QuickBooks Solopreneur is now the successor to QuickBooks Self-Employed (existing Self-Employed subscribers can keep or upgrade).
The Plus plan is the most popular choice for small to mid-sized businesses, offering enough users and features to grow without upgrading right away. Larger businesses or those needing advanced customization may prefer Advanced.
Once you’ve chosen your plan, subscribe to QuickBooks Online and set up your company account. This will be the destination for your QuickBooks Desktop data.
### Step 2: Prepare Your QuickBooks Desktop File
Getting your QuickBooks Desktop file organized before migration will save time and prevent errors. Here’s what to do:
#### 1. Update QuickBooks Desktop
Make sure you’re on the latest release. In QuickBooks Desktop, click Help \> Update QuickBooks Desktop and follow the prompts. Updating ensures the migration tool works correctly.
#### 2. Check Your File Size (Targets)
QuickBooks’ migration tool works best with files under 750,000 targets. Press Ctrl+1 to open the Product Information window and check your file size. If it’s too large, consider condensing the file or starting fresh in QuickBooks Online by importing your lists.
#### 3. Reconcile and Clean Up Your Data
Before moving your data:
- Reconcile bank and credit card accounts
- Categorize all pending transactions
- Pay outstanding bills and write off old invoices
- Clear undeposited funds and record pending payroll or tax payments
#### 4. Print Key Reports
Save or print your Balance Sheet and [Profit & Loss](https://blog.cmp.cpa/financial-statement-services) reports for the current date. You’ll use these to verify that all your data migrated correctly.
**Tip:** *If your file is messy or overly large, this is the perfect opportunity to start fresh in QuickBooks Online. Import your customer and vendor lists, clean up your chart of accounts, and keep your new books organized from day one.*
### Step 3: Back Up Your Company File
Before you move your data, create a full backup of your QuickBooks Desktop company file. This step protects your business records and ensures you can restore everything if something goes wrong during migration.
Here’s how to create a backup:
#### 1. Log in as the Admin
Open QuickBooks Desktop and sign in as the admin user. This ensures you have full access to all company data.
#### 2. Start the Backup Process
In the top menu, click File \> Back Up Company \> Create Local Backup. This will open the backup setup window.
#### 3. Choose Local Backup
Select Local Backup and follow the prompts. QuickBooks will let you choose a location on your computer or an external device.
#### 4. Save a Copy Safely
Save the backup file to a secure location, such as an external hard drive, a USB device, or a secure cloud storage account.
#### 5. Optional: Create a Second Copy
For extra protection, create another copy and store it separately. This way, even if your main computer fails, you’ll have a second version of your company data.
**Tip:** *Make a habit of scheduling regular backups, not just during migration. A simple automated backup schedule can prevent data loss in the future.*
With a fresh backup in place, you’ll have complete peace of mind knowing you can restore your QuickBooks Desktop data if needed.
### Step 4: Export Your Data to QuickBooks Online
Now that your QuickBooks Desktop file is updated, cleaned up, and backed up, it’s time to move your data to QuickBooks Online. QuickBooks has a built-in migration tool that makes this process straightforward.
Here’s how to do it:
#### 1. Log in as the Admin
Open QuickBooks Desktop and sign in to your company file as the admin user. This gives you full permissions to start the export.
#### 2. Start the Export Process
In the top menu, click Company \> Export Company File to QuickBooks Online. This launches the migration wizard.
#### 3. Sign In to QuickBooks Online
When prompted, log in to the QuickBooks Online account you created earlier.
#### 4. Choose Where to Send Your Data
If you have multiple QuickBooks Online companies, carefully select the correct one. Confirm that you understand this transfer will replace any existing data in that account.
#### 5. Start the Migration
Click Continue to begin the data transfer. Depending on the size of your file, this process can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.
#### 6. Wait for the Confirmation Email
Once your migration is complete, Intuit will send you an email confirming your data is now in QuickBooks Online. You can then log in and start reviewing your information.
**Tip:** *If your company file is very large, consider running this export after business hours to avoid downtime while the transfer completes.*
### Step 5: Verify and Fine-Tune Your QuickBooks Online Setup
Once your data has been successfully migrated, take time to review and fine-tune your [QuickBooks Online setup](https://blog.cmp.cpa/getting-started-with-quickbooks-for-accounting-and-bookkeeping). This step ensures your books are accurate and your team is ready to start working in the new system.
#### 1. Compare Reports for Accuracy
Run your Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss reports in QuickBooks Online and compare them to the reports you printed or saved from QuickBooks Desktop. Any discrepancies should be investigated and corrected before moving forward.
#### 2. Reconnect Bank and Credit Card Accounts
While your transactions will transfer, your bank connections won’t. Reconnect your accounts in QuickBooks Online so that new transactions flow in automatically and your reconciliations stay up to date.
#### 3. Set Up Payroll, Taxes, and Inventory
Double-check your payroll setup, tax settings, and inventory tracking. Some details may not transfer perfectly, so this is the time to ensure everything is configured correctly. Also, make sure prior payroll has been accounted for correctly.
#### 4. Invite Your Accountant
One of QuickBooks Online’s biggest advantages is real-time collaboration. Invite your accountant or bookkeeper to your account so they can review your books and provide support as needed.
#### 5. Adjust User Roles and Permissions
Assign roles and permissions to your team members. This ensures each user has the right level of access and keeps sensitive financial information secure.
**Tip:** *Spend extra time in this step exploring QuickBooks Online’s dashboard, navigation, and settings. A quick walkthrough now will help you and your team feel confident using the platform.*
## Post-Migration Checklist
Once your data is in QuickBooks Online, take time to review and optimize your setup. Here’s a simple checklist to follow:
- **Reconnect Integrations:** Reconnect payment processors, [payroll services](https://cmp.cpa/services/bookkeeping-and-payroll-services/), and any third-party apps you use.
- **Update Recurring Transactions:** Check that recurring invoices, bills, and payments are set up correctly.
- **Confirm Data Access:** Make sure all historical data, transactions, and lists are fully accessible and accurate.
Taking these extra steps now will ensure your QuickBooks Online account is accurate and ready for daily use
## Common Issues & Troubleshooting Tips
Even with preparation, a few hiccups can happen. Here’s how to handle the most common migration challenges:
- **Data Didn’t Import Correctly:** Run your key reports and compare them with your Desktop reports. If there are discrepancies, recheck your Desktop data or contact QuickBooks support.
- **File Size Errors:** If your file exceeds QuickBooks’ size limits (around 750,000 targets), use the Condense Data Utility in Desktop or start fresh in QuickBooks Online by importing only your lists.
- **Missing Features or Customization:** Some Desktop features (like certain custom reports or industry-specific tools) may not migrate. Explore QuickBooks Online’s available add-ons or apps to replicate these features.
- **When to Call in a Pro:** If your books are complex or migration errors persist, work with a QuickBooks ProAdvisor or Intuit’s migration service to resolve issues quickly.
Spending time troubleshooting early will help you avoid larger headaches later and keep your financial records accurate.
## Frequently Asked Questions About Switching to QuickBooks Online
Switching from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online can bring up a lot of questions, especially if you’ve been using Desktop for years. Below are answers to the most common questions business owners ask before, during, and after migration:
### How do I convert QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online step-by-step?
You can use QuickBooks’ built-in migration tool to move your data. After updating QuickBooks Desktop and backing up your company file, select Company \> Export Company File to QuickBooks Online, sign in to your Online account, and follow the prompts.
### Can I migrate all of my data from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online?
Most data, including customer information, vendor details, accounts, and transactions, is transferred automatically. Some custom templates, certain reports, and advanced Desktop features may not migrate and may need to be reconfigured manually.
### Is QuickBooks Online better than QuickBooks Desktop for small businesses?
QuickBooks Online is ideal for small businesses that want cloud access, easier collaboration, and automatic updates. The desktop remains strong for advanced reporting and industry-specific features, but Intuit has been winding it down. New sales of Pro Plus, Premier Plus and Mac Plus ended after September 30, 2024, and QuickBooks Desktop 2023 was discontinued on May 31, 2026. Desktop Enterprise is still sold. Intuit calls Desktop 2024 and Enterprise 24.0 its final annual platform releases, and it has said Desktop 2024 won’t be discontinued in May 2027 and has no sunset deadline.
### How long does it take to migrate from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online?
Most migrations take less than an hour, though larger files may require several hours. Plan extra time to review your data, reconnect integrations, and adjust settings after the transfer.
### Do I need to hire someone to help with QuickBooks migration, or can I do it myself?
Many small businesses can successfully migrate using QuickBooks’ free migration tool. If your company file is large, your data is complex, or you want a smooth transition, hiring a [QuickBooks consultant](https://cmp.cpa/services/quickbooks/) is a smart choice.
## Final Thoughts
Switching from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online may feel like a big change, but with a clear plan, the process is simple and rewarding. You’ll gain the flexibility of cloud-based accounting, automatic updates, and easier collaboration with your team and accountant. By following this guide, you can migrate your data confidently and set your business up for long-term success.
Free guide · Ten pages
For the week after you switch
The conversion is the easy part. Finding where Intuit moved things is what costs the time — keep both sets of menu paths to hand.
[Get the Free Guide](https://info.cmp.cpa/download-quickbooks-reference?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=inline_cta&utm_campaign=quickbooks-desktop-to-quickbooks-online&utm_content=quickbooks-guide-end)
If you’d rather skip the stress of doing it alone, we’re here to help. At [CMP](https://cmp.cpa/), we work with business owners and offer [QuickBooks consulting services](https://cmp.cpa/services/accounting-software-solutions/) tailored to your business needs. Whether you need guidance through the migration process or full QuickBooks setup and support, our team is here for you.
Schedule a QuickBooks consultation today and let us help you move forward with confidence.
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About Becca Park
Becca Park is a Tax Associate in the Logan office of CMP and has been a part of the team since 2020. She was born and raised in Cache Valley and earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Accounting with a specialization in taxation from Utah State University. Becca’s primary focus is on individual and business taxation. She also specializes in bookkeeping and works to provide clients with payroll solutions. She is passionate about working with clients and helping them with their accounting, tax, and payroll needs. When she is not helping clients, Becca enjoys spending time with friends and family, especially her husband, Riley, and their daughter. She enjoys fishing, skiing, and watching a good movie.
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