Skip to main content

Get 50% OFF QuickBooks for 3 months*

Buy now
Switch to QuickBooks and 70% off for 3 Months
January 22, 2026
Question

Can I stop reference number adding a number to the next transaction

  • January 22, 2026
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views
Is there a way to change this if I cannot stop it from happening

    1 reply

    QuickBooks Team
    January 22, 2026

    Hi there, CSMadden.

     

    Thank you for reaching out to the QuickBooks Community. We understand you’d like to stop reference numbers from auto-incrementing on your transactions in QuickBooks Online. We’re happy to guide you through the process.

     

    How to Disable Auto-Numbering:

     

    1. Click the Settings (gear icon) in the upper right corner.
    2. Select Account and Settings.
    3. Go to the Sales tab for sales transactions (invoices, estimates, and sales receipts).
    4. Find the Custom transaction numbers section.
    5. Toggle the setting Off.
    6. Click Save, then Done.

     

    Once auto-numbering is turned off, you’ll need to manually enter reference numbers for every new transaction.

     

    If you prefer to keep auto-numbering but want to change the starting number or format, simply edit the reference number on your next transaction. QuickBooks will automatically continue the sequence from there.

     

    If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, feel free to comment below. We’re here to help.