How to Email Portable Copy QB Desktop 2018 version to QB Desktop Pro 2021

Hello there, @HM21.

I've got information to share on how you can open the new portable copy that you received with the changes in QuickBooks.

If you're trying to open the accountant’s copy, make sure to use the QuickBooks version your client used to create it. The incompatibility of the versions can be the reason why you're unable to open the file.

To fix this, you might consider using the same versions of QBDT. Once the accountant is done making changes on your file, they will  export the accountant’s copy as accountant’s changes (.QBY).

They can send the file to you so you can import the accountant’s changes to your company file.

I recommend checking out this reference to give you more details about utilizing the accountant's copy in QBDT: Find out how to use an accountant’s copy as a working file in QuickBooks Desktop Accountant and Enterprise Accountant.

However, if you're trying to open a portable file, make sure that you're using .QBM as the file extension. This is the file type used when you e-mail or move a company file.

Here's how you can open it:

1. Open QuickBooks and log in as an admin.
2. Go to the File menu and select Open or Restore Company.
3. Select Restore a portable file, then select Next.
4. Select your portable company file. It should look like this: [Unique company file name].qbm. Then select Open.
5. Read the notes on the Where do you want to restore the file page, then select Next.
6. When you're ready to open your file, select Save.

If you're still unable to open it, I recommend performing the resolution found in this link to fix the issue: Learn what to do if you can't create or open a portable company file.

Let me know on how this steps work for you. I'll be around to assist you if you need anything else. 

@HM21 

If you send the QBW, QBB, or QBM file of QBD 2018 to your bookkeeper, she will open it and it will be converted on QBD 2019. You won't be able to open the converted file again. If she is not using QBD 2019 Accountant edition, both of you may consider a workaround with the lower cost than purchasing a new license of QBD 2021. 

As another option, you may purchase a one time license of QBD 2021 Pro 1 users worth $299 to open the converted file. Keep in mind, your bookkeeper won't be able to open your QBD 2021 file.