Is QuickBooks Desktop Being Phased Out? — Katana (2024)

Can you still buy a desktop version of QuickBooks?

The recent news of QBD 2020 losing support has left users questioning — will there be a QuickBooks Desktop 2023? The good news is yes — QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus 2023 was released in September 2022. There are changes in the subscription policy and prices, but the main thing is that there is a new version available, and for those who still don’t want to move to the Online software, QBD 2023 is an option.

There are also those who have been curious whether there is a QuickBooks Desktop 2022. QBD 2022 was indeed released in September 2021, introducing subscription-only pricing. If you’re on a budget and don’t necessarily need all the new features that QBD 2023 offers, then the 2022 version is an alternative.

In comparison, QBO yearly plans start from $180, whereas QBD yearly prices start from $549. Taking into account also the extra features that the Online version offers, it’s safe to say that Intuit really wants you to move over to QBO sooner rather than later.

How to move over to QuickBooks Online?

Once you’ve weighed the pros and cons and decided that QBO is a better fit for your business, there are just a few simple steps to convert to QuickBooks Online.

  • Export the data
  • Plan the migration
  • Choose a payment plan

Export the data

While QBD and QBO are compatible and should be able to sync all the data accordingly, some features or reports are unavailable either in QBO or the plan you select. Payroll, Online Banking, and Merchant Services are just a few examples of what you will lose.

Plan the migration

Moving your data from one place to the other may take some time, and both platforms will be unavailable at that time. It’s highly recommended to plan the migration for an evening or a slower time when it won’t disrupt your work too much.

Choose a payment plan

Perhaps the most essential thing to consider is which subscription plan works for you. Depending on your business needs and the types of documents you handle, select the plan that will benefit you the most and has all the features you need daily.

Of course, there’s also the budget element and figuring out which plan is the most affordable. However, if you opt for the cheapest package, you might have to replace the features you cut out and eventually end up paying more than you initially were afraid to.

Is QuickBooks Desktop Being Phased Out? — Katana (1)

If you’re struggling to move your data from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online or are looking for the easiest way to do it, the “QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online Conversion” tool is a very common method used by other users.

These are the general steps to migrate your data:

  1. Backup your QuickBooks Desktop company file
  2. Sign in to QuickBooks Online and go to Settings (gear icon)
  3. Select “Import data”
  4. Select “From QuickBooks Desktop”
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to convert your company file and import it into QuickBooks Online

Note that this process converts the data, not the customizations, like reports, forms, and memorized transactions. So, go over your files just in case and double-check your settings.

For more detailed instructions or in case of issues, seek advice from Intuit via the website or their support team.

QuickBooks Desktop 2020 versions may be moving on with their lives, so it’s time you do the same. When one door closes, another one opens. There are plenty more fish in the sea. Things happen for a reason. Regardless of how many clichés we add here, remember: this change may have left you feeling down, but Katana + QBO are here to lift you back up again.

Is QuickBooks Desktop Being Phased Out? — Katana (2024)

FAQs

Will QuickBooks Desktop be discontinued in 2023? ›

As of May 31, 2023, QuickBooks Desktop for Windows 2020 is being phased out and support is discontinued. Discontinuation affects all versions of QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, and Enterprise Solutions v20. This means that add-on services, support and updates will no longer be available.

Is Intuit going to stop supporting QuickBooks desktop? ›

The long answer: Intuit are sunsetting some versions of QuickBooks Desktop (QBD), and it might be possible for some users to keep accessing it —though it is not recommended. From May 31st, 2023, Intuit will stop supporting these QuickBooks Desktop 2020 versions: QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020.

What to expect when moving from QuickBooks Desktop to Online? ›

Nothing changes, we simply copy the data to QuickBooks Online. Going forward, you'll input new data in QuickBooks Online. You'll still keep the QuickBooks Desktop company file with your data, but can only access this data with an active QuickBooks Desktop subscription.

Why is QuickBooks desktop closing on its own? ›

Installation or File Problems

Damaged or missing QuickBooks components, incomplete or improper installation, and damaged program files can cause QuickBooks 2022 shuts down randomly.

How much will QuickBooks Desktop 2023 cost? ›

The QuickBooks 2023 Desktop prices will be: QuickBooks 2023 Desktop Pro Plus $549. QuickBooks 2023 Desktop Mac Plus $549. QuickBooks 2023 Desktop Premier Plus $799.

How do I upgrade QuickBooks desktop to 2023? ›

Here's how:
  1. Go to the Downloads & Updates page.
  2. Click the standard setup link.
  3. Select the country, product (QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise), & version (2023).
  4. Click the Search button.
  5. Hit Download.
  6. Restart your computer after installed successfully.
Oct 26, 2022

Is QuickBooks desktop moving to subscription? ›

In May 2023 the 2020 version will be sunset. You can learn more about this in the QuickBooks help article: QuickBooks Desktop service discontinuation policy. This means if you're using any version of QuickBooks Desktop 2020 you'll want to move to the new subscription model or to QuickBooks Online.

Does QuickBooks desktop have to be updated every year? ›

There is no hard and fast rule of exactly when you need to upgrade. There are some professional services companies that do 1-2 large transactions a month, don't have inventory, and for them, QuickBooks Pro will work just fine.

Can I still use QuickBooks desktop after subscription expires? ›

If you're wondering, “can I still use QuickBooks after subscription expires,” the answer is, you can still access the file even if you don't restore the subscription. However, you won't get security updates and online services like the following: Online Backup. Online Banking.

Is it hard to switch from QuickBooks desktop to online? ›

In QuickBooks Desktop, log in as an admin to the company file you need to import. Go to the Company menu, then select Export Company File to QuickBooks Online. Select Get started. Click Select destination, then sign in to your QuickBooks Online account.

What does not convert from QuickBooks desktop to online? ›

Audit Trail:

The audit trail of previously entered transactions does not convert from Desktop to Online, but QuickBooks Online has its own automatic Audit Log with a detailed audit trail of every transaction that is added or changed, as well as the log in/out of users accessing the file.

Is it worth switching to QuickBooks Online? ›

Is QuickBooks Online better than Desktop? QuickBooks Online is better for business owners who want easy-to-use cloud-based accounting that includes anywhere online access, mobile apps, and tons of integrations with other business apps.

When should you stop using QuickBooks? ›

Here are the top nine telltale signs it's time to take the leap off of QuickBooks.
  1. You have difficulty managing and consolidating data from multiple entities. ...
  2. You need a more well-documented audit trail. ...
  3. You are about to reach the maximum number of users. ...
  4. You do not have a built-in CRM system.
Jul 21, 2020

Why is QuickBooks Online so different from desktop? ›

QuickBooks Desktop is a more traditional accounting software that you download and install on your computer, while QuickBooks Online is cloud-based accounting software you access through the internet.

What happens at the end of QuickBooks desktop subscription? ›

At the end of your current subscription period, you'll no longer be able to use or access QuickBooks Desktop. Your will company file will remain on your device, but you'll need to re-activate your subscription or purchase an outright license to be able to open and view it.

Is QuickBooks desktop expiring? ›

Intuit will discontinue support for QuickBooks Desktop 2020 as of May 31, 2023. This includes all versions of QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier and Enterprise Solutions v20 (see the specific list of products below). After May 31, 2023, access to add-on services will be discontinued for QuickBooks Desktop 2020.

What is the cheapest way to get QuickBooks desktop? ›

The cheapest QuickBooks Online plan is the Self-employed plan. It's available for just $15 per month.

Why is QuickBooks getting so expensive? ›

Answer: Intuit has significantly increased the prices for QB Premier 2021. The wholesale pricing has nearly doubled, and we don't expect the prices to go down. The guess is that Intuit would like to make QB Premier a subscription service like they did with QB Enterprise a few years ago.

How long will QuickBooks Desktop 2023 be supported? ›

Your access to QuickBooks Desktop Payroll Services, Live Support, Online Backup, Online Banking, and other services through QuickBooks Desktop 2020 software will be discontinued after May 31, 2023.

Can I go back to an older version of QuickBooks desktop? ›

Go to the Help menu, then Manage My License and select Switch to then choose the version.

Is QuickBooks desktop upgrade free? ›

Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop without a subscription

You can upgrade with the easy upgrade tool. Here's how. Select Help, and then Upgrade QuickBooks. Select the version you want to upgrade to, then select Upgrade Now.

Is QuickBooks desktop all subscription only? ›

If you're in the market to upgrade your QuickBooks Desktop application or maybe even waiting to purchase QuickBooks 2022, it may seem like you can only purchase a subscription plan. However, many are unaware that you can purchase QuickBooks Desktop as a standalone application without having to pay a subscription fee.

How much is the QuickBooks desktop pro annual subscription? ›

QuickBooks Desktop Pricing Comparison
Quickbooks OptionsBest ForPrice
QuickBooks ProSmall businesses with 1-3 users$350/year
QuickBooks PremierSmall to medium businesses with 1-5 users$550/year
QuickBooks EnterpriseLarge businesses with 1-40 users$1,340+/year
Jul 29, 2022

How much is QuickBooks desktop monthly subscription? ›

QuickBooks Desktop Enhanced Payroll is priced at $50/month + $5 per employee. You can also save money by signing up for an annual plan priced at $500/year + $5 per employee.

How do I know if my QuickBooks desktop is up to date? ›

QuickBooks automatically downloads and installs the latest updates when they're available.
...
Check to see if you have the latest release
  1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.
  2. Press F2 (or Ctrl+1) to open the Product Information window.
  3. Check your current version and release.

How many times can I install QuickBooks desktop? ›

The standard QuickBooks Pro license lets you install the product on up to 3 computers. It also has a multi-company feature. Note that one license is required for each user.

How often should you backup QuickBooks desktop? ›

Intuit suggests making a backup at the end of each session or each day to a network drive, external hard drive, or a removable storage device like a CD, USB flash drive, etc. You can also sign up for Intuit Data Protect if you prefer an online backup service for your QB files.

What to do with QuickBooks at the end of the year? ›

Get ahead of your team and client's last-minute tasks in QuickBooks with this year-end checklist.
  1. Use your accountant tools. ...
  2. Write off uncollectible debts. ...
  3. Set up default dates for reports. ...
  4. Correct miscategorized transactions. ...
  5. Prep payroll for year-end. ...
  6. Complete reconciliations. ...
  7. Make account balance adjustments.
Dec 1, 2022

What happens if I don't renew my QuickBooks desktop? ›

With QuickBooks Desktop 2023 R3 or newer, view-only access remains for 1 year after your subscription ends. In that time, you won't be able to edit your data with your inactive license. But, you can renew your subscription or export your data. To view your data after 1 year, you'll have to renew your subscription.

How do I close QuickBooks desktop for the year? ›

I'll guide you how:
  1. Go to Settings and then select Accounts and settings.
  2. Select the Advanced tab.
  3. Click the pencil icon in the Accounting section.
  4. Toggle Close the books.
  5. Enter a closing date.

What is the best way to move QuickBooks to a new computer? ›

From QuickBooks, go to the File menu, select Utilities, and then select Move QuickBooks to another computer. Select I'm Ready, then create a one-time password. Follow the instructions to choose the USB flash drive you'll use. Then wait for the files to be copied.

Can I convert my QuickBooks desktop to QuickBooks Online? ›

QuickBooks Desktop Pro or Premier
  1. Sign in as an admin to the company file you need to import.
  2. Go to Company, then select Export Company File to QuickBooks Online.
  3. Select Start your export.
  4. Sign in as an admin to your QuickBooks Online company.

How much does it cost to convert QuickBooks desktop to online? ›

One of the benefits you can reap by converting QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online is that it is free of cost. Intuit doesn't charge anything for importing data to the online version.

How long does it take to transfer data from QuickBooks desktop to online? ›

Common Deciding Factors to convert quickbooks desktop to online. If you search through QuickBooks forums and online communities, you would find people mentioning that it takes only 15-30 minutes to convert files from qbdt to qbo. Then, there will be users mentioning the time taken to be up to 24 hours.

How do I transfer QuickBooks desktop to online after 60 days? ›

Go to Company > Export Company File to QuickBooks Online. Follow the prompts to connect to QuickBooks Online.

Do QuickBooks Online and desktop work together? ›

Does QuickBooks Online sync with your QuickBooks Desktop version? No. QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online are separate platforms that do not sync with each other. However, in addition to its mobile app, QuickBooks Online has a desktop app.

Is QuickBooks Desktop being discontinued in 2023? ›

As of May 31, 2023, QuickBooks Desktop for Windows 2020 is being phased out and support is discontinued. Discontinuation affects all versions of QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, and Enterprise Solutions v20. This means that add-on services, support and updates will no longer be available.

What is the disadvantage of QuickBooks? ›

Drawbacks of QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online Simple Start costs $30 per month, includes only one account user (plus access for two accountants) and does not offer time tracking, bill pay or inventory management.

Is it difficult to transition from QuickBooks desktop to QuickBooks Online? ›

This article is part of a larger series on Accounting Software. If you'd like to access your QuickBooks software from anywhere, it's time to switch to QuickBooks Online. Converting from QuickBooks Desktop to Online is quick and easy most of the time, and if you get stuck, you can contact QuickBooks support for free.

Why don t large companies use QuickBooks? ›

QuickBooks is designed as a generic accounting and bookkeeping platform for a wide variety of businesses, and it fulfills its purpose. However, the software lacks the functionality and features that businesses need to increase their efficiency, profitability, and scalability.

What is the next step after QuickBooks? ›

Switching to an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system

Unlike QuickBooks, a small business accounting software, an ERP is a centralized solution that can link each process through a common platform.

Can you use Excel instead of QuickBooks? ›

The formulas in Excel are much more powerful than those in Quickbooks, which means you can also use Excel to perform complex calculations. It is difficult or impossible with QuickBooks because it lacks the ability to perform advanced functions such as statistical analysis and pivot tables.

How much is QuickBooks desktop 2023? ›

The QuickBooks 2023 Desktop prices will be: QuickBooks 2023 Desktop Pro Plus $549. QuickBooks 2023 Desktop Mac Plus $549. QuickBooks 2023 Desktop Premier Plus $799.

What to expect when moving from QuickBooks desktop to Online? ›

Nothing changes, we simply copy the data to QuickBooks Online. Going forward, you'll input new data in QuickBooks Online. You'll still keep the QuickBooks Desktop company file with your data, but can only access this data with an active QuickBooks Desktop subscription.

Do I lose my data if I cancel QuickBooks? ›

If you cancel your QuickBooks Online subscription, your data will be available in read-only access. If you need to see your data after this date, you'll need to resubscribe to QuickBooks Online.

Does QuickBooks desktop have to be renewed every year? ›

To view your data after 1 year, you'll have to renew your subscription. Note: As a QuickBooks Desktop user, you still own your data, regardless of subscription status. You can open and edit company files at any time with a compatible license or active subscription.

Is QuickBooks desktop 2023 compatible with Windows 11? ›

Currently, only QuickBooks Desktop 2022 (Pro Plus, Premier Plus, Pro and Enterprise) R3 or later is certified as fully compatible with Windows 11 64-bit. If you choose to use Windows 11 for other QuickBooks versions, there may be some unexpected issues with your QuickBooks software.

How often do you have to buy QuickBooks desktop? ›

This software supports up to five users. QuickBooks Premier prices come in two available plans. You can purchase QuickBooks Premier Plus or have access to built-in payroll with QuickBooks Premier Plus + Payroll. Both plans are billed annually.

How much does it cost to convert QuickBooks desktop to QuickBooks Online? ›

One of the benefits you can reap by converting QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online is that it is free of cost. Intuit doesn't charge anything for importing data to the online version. You can easily compare reports from current year to previous year.

How much does it cost to renew QuickBooks desktop? ›

QuickBooks Desktop Premier Plus

Starts at $799/year for one user. All Pro Plus features, plus industry-specific reports, forecasting tools, sales orders, customized inventory reports and more.

Why does QuickBooks 2023 keep crashing? ›

Other than damage, outdated Windows OS can also trigger the QuickBooks 2015 keeps crashing error. Therefore, users need to ensure constant updation of the Windows to eliminate QB errors. Incompatibility between OS and QuickBooks application is also the primary reason for QuickBooks 2023 Keeps Crashing.

Which Windows operating system does QuickBooks no longer support? ›

Get answers to commonly asked questions if you use Windows 8.1. As of January 10, 2023, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or support for PCs with Windows 8.1.

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