How to Switch from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online

Switching to QuickBooks Online (QBO) offers real-time access to your financial data, crucial for both you and your CPA. Plus, with Intuit sunsetting QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) 2020, there won't be any new updates or support, and many add-ons, including payroll, will no longer be available. QBDT is also transitioning to a subscription-based model, much like QBO already is, making the switch essential for most small businesses.

Overcoming the Fear of Change

We understand that change can be daunting. At Callison CPA, we guide our clients through the transition from QBDT to QBO. The process isn't necessarily hard, especially with the right professional help. We recommend working with a qualified accountant to ensure your QBDT files are ready for a seamless conversion.

Ensuring Your Files Are Ready

When we help clients convert to QBO, the process is usually quick and straightforward, provided your files are in good order. We'll review your current files to see if they're suitable for complete conversion. If they are, the task is relatively easy. If not, we'll import usable lists (like customer names, vendors, and accounts) into QBO.

Submitting Your QBDT File

Once you submit your QBDT file to us, we ask that you stop working on it. This helps avoid discrepancies and redundant work. For payroll and other services, we'll guide you on how to disconnect any recurring charges to prevent duplicate transactions.

Post-Conversion Steps

After the conversion, we will handle several tasks to ensure your QBO is set up correctly. QBO supports up to 250 charted accounts, so usually, no trimming is needed. We will invite you to your new QBO account, help connect your bank accounts, and show you how to use QBO effectively, including where to find necessary reports.

The Importance of Professional Help with Payroll

Payroll can be complex during the transition. We've seen clients face costly payroll errors when trying to handle this themselves. QBO's automation is powerful but can lead to issues if not set up correctly. Professional guidance ensures your payroll runs smoothly.

Adapting to QBO

There is a learning curve with QBO, especially in how reports are presented. At Callison CPA, we spend time tailoring training to meet our clients' needs. We help you understand where to find all the information critical to your business.

QBO is continuously improving based on feedback from its large community of accountants, meaning it keeps getting better. Staying informed about these changes is crucial.

Make the Switch Today

Transferring to QBO provides numerous benefits, including instant access to your financial data across various platforms. With QBO, you and your accountant can view your files securely and work on them in real time.

At Callison CPA, we offer conversion processing to our current monthly clients and are here to discuss your goals and needs. Contact us to get started!