In QuickBooks Online (QBO), we cannot set an automatic timer or clock within the system to start and stop tracking time for specific tasks, @betterbkg. However, we can manually log the time spent on a client's account, which requires entering the time after you’ve completed your work rather than using a built-in timer feature. Let me guide you through this.
In QBO, the Single time activity is a feature that allows users to record a single entry of time spent on a specific task for a client.
To access the Single time activity, here's how:
- On the left panel, click the + New button.
- Select Single time activity.
- Choose your preference, then check the billable option so you can bill it to your client/customer.
- You can also add a Description.
- Then, click Save and close.


If you have QuickBooks Time, we can clock in and out or add time manually, and then use the billable option again.
- On the left panel, select Time.
- Select Time Entries.
- Click on Add time.
- Click on Add work details, and fill in the required fields.
- Once done, click Save.

Also, you can check this article for detailed information and other options for time tracking in QBO: Turn on and set up time tracking in QuickBooks Online.
Additionally, running Time Activities by Customer Detail Report will show all the time entries logged for each client, providing a granular view of how many hours have been spent on various tasks. This report can be used to analyze how time is being utilized among different clients or projects. This will highlight areas where time could be better managed or where resources may need to be reallocated.
If you have any further questions or need assistance navigating these features in QBO, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you streamline your time tracking and improve your accounting processes.